AN ACT REQUIRING MEDICAID COVERAGE FOR BONE MARROW AND STEM CELL TRANSPLANTS AND FDA-APPROVED GENE THERAPIES TO TREAT SICKLE CELL DISEASE.

SB 439 requires Medicaid to cover bone marrow/stem cell transplants and FDA-approved gene therapies specifically for treating sickle cell disease. This directly affects Medicaid beneficiaries diagnosed with sickle cell disease who currently lack access to these advanced treatments. The bill mandates that the Commissioner of Social Services provide this coverage, removing financial barriers to life-saving options. Its stated purpose is to ensure equitable access to these treatments, reduce patient suffering, and lower long-term healthcare costs.