NEW YORK STATE ASSEMBLY MEMORANDUM IN SUPPORT OF LEGISLATION submitted in accordance with Assembly Rule III, Sec 1(f)
BILL NUMBER: A8518
SPONSOR: Steck TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the insurance law, in relation to requiring insurance
coverage of outpatient problem gambling services
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:.:
Subparagraph (A) of paragraph 31 of subsection (i) of section 3216 of
the insurance law, as amended by section 6 of subpart A of part BB of
chapter 57 of the laws of 2019, is amended to read as follows:
Every policy that provides medical, major medical or similar comprehen-
sive-type coverage shall provide outpatient coverage for the diagnosis
and treatment of substance use disorder, including detoxification
and,
rehabilitation, and problem gambling services. Such coverage shall not
apply financial requirements or treatment limitations to outpatient
substance use disorder benefits that are more restrictive than the
predominant financial requirements and treatment limitations applied to
substantially all medical and surgical benefits covered by the policy.
PURPOSE AND JUSTIFICATION:
According to recent data and reports from the National Council on Prob-
lem Gambling, there has been a significant increase in problem gambling,
particularly since the legalization of sports betting, with more people
reporting gambling issues and a rise in calls to gambling addiction
hotlines; experts attribute this to increased accessibility through
online platforms and mobile apps.
As we continue to expand gambling opportunities, we should expect an
increase in New Yorkers seeking help for problem gambling. Current law
does not require insurers to cover problem gambling treatment provided
by OASAS certified treatment programs unless the person also has an
associated substance use disorder. Thus, the network of providers best
able to address the issue are not able to do so. Without this change,
many in need of help will be unable to find it.
EXISTING LAW:
None.
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
New legislation.
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
None to the state
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act will take effect immediately
