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Georgia House passes bill to require insurance coverage for PANS/PANDAS in children
Summary
The Georgia House passed House Bill 124 on Feb. 25, 2025, directing insurers to cover diagnosis and treatment for pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric conditions known as PANS and PANDAS. Sponsors and members described the measure as targeted help for affected children and families; the bill passed unanimously, 173-0.
House Bill 124, which requires health insurance coverage for children diagnosed with pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders (PANS and PANDAS), passed the Georgia House unanimously on Feb. 25, 2025.
Representative Scoggins, who presented the bill, told colleagues the measure "requires health coverage for children with PANS and PANDAS" and noted a handout on desks explaining the conditions and treatment needs. Scoggins described the bill as limited in scope: it mandates coverage for diagnosis and treatment that follow nationally recognized clinical guidance. Several members described personal connections to the disorder during floor debate.
Supporters said the bill fills a coverage gap for a condition that can appear suddenly and bring neuropsychiatric symptoms, including anxiety and obsessive-compulsive behavior. Representative Dr. Alff, a physician, called PANS/PANDAS an example of an “orphan” condition needing greater attention and urged members to stand with affected families. Representative Bennett and Representative Clark described local cases and the emotional and financial strain on families; Clark said she had a friend whose daughter developed PANDAS.
Chairman Lumsden, speaking in favor, said the bill will require insurers to cover interventions "based on nationally recognized clinical guidelines" and stressed the bill’s goal of preventing families from fighting insurers while caring for children. Questioning from several members focused on clinical research and the bill’s practical effect on access; members noted clinical trials and institutional work addressing the condition.
After committee approval and floor debate, the House voted to pass the bill. The clerk recorded 173 yeas and 0 nays. The bill will next move to the Senate for consideration.
Why it matters: Supporters described PANS and PANDAS as conditions that can cause abrupt, severe changes in behavior and function for children and said early, guideline-based treatment can reduce long-term harm. Sponsors argued the measure prevents financial barriers to care.
Implementation notes: The bill directs insurers to cover diagnostic and treatment services consistent with nationally recognized clinical guidance; it does not itself create new clinical protocols. Sponsors said existing clinical institutions are conducting trials and that the American Academy of Pediatrics has recognized the conditions.
Votes at a glance
Passed: House Bill 124 — Passage vote: 173-0.
Next steps: Referred to the Georgia Senate for consideration.
