2024 State Legislatures Kick Off: Audiology Issues in Play

At the start of January, most of the state legislatures started their annual session. In 46 states, legislatures hold a regular session annually. In Montana, Nevada, North Dakota, and Texas, the legislature meets in odd years. To date, numerous bills related to audiology and/or hearing health care have been introduced for consideration. 

The Academy monitors state legislation to keep current with emerging issues and trends. Legislation to implement the audiology interstate licensure compact has been introduced in Arkansas, Florida, and New Jersey.

Other highlights include but are not limited to the following:

• Rhode Island H.B. 7197—Increase the mandated insurance coverage amount for hearing aids from $1,500 to $2,000.
• Maryland H.B. 669—Alters method used to determine percentage of hearing loss for workers compensation. Requires tinnitus to be considered part of a covered employees hearing loss.
• New Jersey S.1171—Expands Medicaid coverage for unilateral or bilateral hearing aids, cochlear implants or osseointegrated devices and related services.
• Wyoming S.F. 0057—Creates an adult hearing aid program for persons not eligible through private insurance, Medicaid, Medicare, or other third-party payer.
• Florida H.B. 499—Expands current CMV screening program to include neonatal intensive care unit patients and include follow-up services.