In March 2025, Gov. Huckabee Sanders signed several healthcare bills into law.
Act 268 (previously HB 1309) amends the law regarding coverage of examinations for breast cancer and clarifies cost-sharing requirements. Specifically, the act clarifies that health benefit plans shall not impose a cost-sharing requirement for a screening mammogram or breast ultrasound, even if a service is provided on a different date or more than one service is provided on the date of service.
Act 348 (previously HB 1583) requires health benefits plans to provide coverage for medically necessary treatment related to an acquired brain injury. The requirement applies to health benefit plans that are offered, issued, renewed, delivered, or extended in the state on or after January 1, 2026.
Act 390 (previously HB 1316) requires health benefit plans offered, issued, renewed, delivered, or extended in the state on or after January 1, 2026, to provide coverage for lung cancer screenings and follow-up healthcare services according to the American Cancer Society guidelines. The coverage for lung cancer screenings is not subject to an annual deductible, copayment, or coinsurance limit as established for other covered benefits under the plans.
In Arkansas, acts without an emergency clause or a specified effective date generally take effect on the 91st day following the adjournment of the state legislative session. For 2025, the date of adjournment was May 5, 2025, so acts lacking an emergency clause or a specified effective date will generally become effective on Tuesday, August 5, 2025.
Employers that sponsor fully insured plans should be aware of these new laws and contact their carrier for further information regarding the coverage requirements and to confirm effective dates.