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KY HB21

KY HB21
AN ACT relating to mental health coverage in connection with pregnancy.


summary

Introduced
01/06/2026
In Committee
01/13/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2026 Regular Session

Bill Summary

Create a new section of Subtitle 17A of KRS Chapter 304 to define terms; require health benefit plans to provide coverage for counseling interventions for pregnant and postpartum persons at increased risk of perinatal depression, including persons who have suffered a miscarriage or stillbirth; suspend the coverage requirement's application to qualified health plans if the state would be required to make cost defrayal payments; amend KRS 304.17A-099 to conform; amend KRS 205.522, 205.6485, 164.2871, and 18A.225 to require Medicaid, the Kentucky Children's Health Insurance Program, self-insured employer plans provided by the governing board of a state postsecondary education institution, and the state employee health plan to comply with the coverage requirement for counseling interventions; provide that certain provisions apply to health benefit plans issued or renewed on or after January 1, 2027; require the Cabinet for Health and Family Services or Department for Medicaid Services to obtain federal approval if it is determined that such approval is necessary and comply with notice requirements; provide authorization from the General Assembly to make changes in the Medicaid program as required under KRS 205.5372(1); EFFECTIVE, in part, January 1, 2027.

AI Summary

This bill requires health benefit plans, including those offered by Medicaid, the Kentucky Children's Health Insurance Program (KCHIP), self-insured employer plans at state postsecondary education institutions, and the state employee health plan, to cover counseling interventions for pregnant and postpartum individuals at increased risk of perinatal depression, which includes those who have experienced a miscarriage or stillbirth. This coverage requirement will apply to health benefit plans issued or renewed on or after January 1, 2027. The bill also includes provisions to suspend this coverage requirement for qualified health plans if the state would be obligated to pay for the costs, and it mandates that state agencies seek necessary federal approval to implement these changes, particularly for Medicaid and KCHIP, and comply with federal notice requirements.

Committee Categories

Business and Industry

Sponsors (3)

Last Action

to Banking & Insurance (H) (on 01/13/2026)

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