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Bill would require insurance coverage for hearing aids; supporters cite dementia link and advocates target fiscal note
Summary
House Bill 607 would add insurance coverage for hearing aids by state-regulated plans and the state plan; proponents including AARP, audiologists and disability advocates urged passage citing links between untreated hearing loss and dementia, while state fiscal witnesses and the sponsor discussed cost estimates and implementation.
Representative Paul Tuss opened the hearing on House Bill 607, saying the bill requires insurance coverage for hearing loss aids and modernizes statutory references.
Advocates and clinicians testified in support. Brad Griffin, a private citizen, said untreated hearing loss has “serious health consequences” and flagged the high cost of devices — he cited an average pair cost as a barrier. Fran Vareck, an AARP volunteer who testified as a private citizen, told the committee that a…
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