The bill aims to expand Medicaid and CHIP coverage for speech therapy related to stuttering and speech fluency issues in children. It mandates screenings for childhood-onset fluency disorders, including stuttering, for children aged 2 to 6. From January 1, 2029, Medicaid is required to cover specified speech therapy services for childhood-onset fluency disorders without more restrictive treatment limitations, including services delivered through telecommunications. Medicaid managed care organizations must ensure compliance with speech therapy coverage requirements. Similarly, CHIP will be required to cover specified speech therapy services for targeted low-income children and pregnant women. This bill also ensures parity in coverage of speech therapy services under CHIP.
