S8265A

The New York State Senate passed legislation requiring insurance companies to cover replacement cochlear implant devices when they malfunction or become obsolete. Senate Print 8265A, sponsored by Sen. Weber, passed on a 59-0 roll call vote. The bill addresses a gap in insurance coverage that has forced families with children using cochlear implants to bear significant out-of-pocket costs for replacement devices. Weber explained that while new cochlear implants come with two rechargeable devices covered by insurance, replacement devices are not covered when they malfunction or need upgrading. He described meeting with families in his district who faced financial hardship, with some children forced to go without hearing for hours while waiting for working devices to recharge. The legislation modifies state insurance guidelines to require coverage of replacement devices, ensuring cochlear implant recipients have continuous access to sound. The bill takes effect January 1, 2027.