Concerning Coverage For Genetic Testing For Inherited Cancer Mutations; And To Create The Genetic Testing Act.
Summary
SB331 creates the “Genetic Testing Act” and requires certain health benefit plans issued, offered, or renewed in Arkansas on or after January 1, 2026, to cover clinical genetic testing for inherited cancer mutations when an enrollee has a personal or family history of cancer and the test is recommended by a healthcare professional. It also requires coverage for evidence-based cancer imaging for enrollees at increased cancer risk when such imaging is recommended under National Comprehensive Cancer Network clinical practice guidelines.
The bill defines key terms such as health benefit plan, healthcare insurer, enrollee, cost-sharing requirements, and the types of genetic testing and imaging covered. It excludes several categories of coverage from the mandate, including Medicaid, workers’ compensation, state and local government employee plans, dental-only and vision-only plans, and other limited-benefit policies. The bill also authorizes the Insurance Commissioner to adopt rules to implement and administer the new subchapter.
Impact
The bill amends Arkansas Code Title 23, Chapter 79 by adding a new subchapter that imposes an insurance coverage mandate on private health benefit plans. It would require insurers and other covered healthcare insurers to pay for specified genetic testing and cancer imaging services, subject to federal health savings account rules and preventive-care exceptions. The practical effect is to expand access to hereditary cancer screening and related imaging while shifting some costs from patients to insurers, beginning with plan years on or after January 1, 2026.
Sentiment
The available voting history shows strong support for SB331, with a 34-0 third-reading vote in the Senate. No committee transcripts were provided, but the unanimous floor vote suggests broad bipartisan or at least noncontroversial support for the bill’s goal of improving access to cancer-related genetic testing and imaging. The bill’s framing as a health coverage measure for inherited cancer risk also indicates a generally favorable policy reception.
Contention
No direct committee debate is available, and the final vote shows no recorded opposition. The main policy issues that could have generated discussion are the insurance mandate itself, the scope of required coverage, and the interaction with high-deductible health plans and health savings account eligibility under federal law. Another possible point of concern is cost to insurers and premiums, though no specific opposition is documented in the provided materials.