Augmentative and alternative communication systems health insurance coverage required, and money appropriated.

This bill requires Minnesota health insurance plans to cover augmentative and alternative communication systems and related habilitation services for people with severe communication limitations. The law mandates that these devices and services be covered when deemed medically necessary by a prescribing physician, without separate financial requirements or quantitative limits that apply only to these benefits. Health plans may still require prior authorization but must use current evidence-based guidelines and cannot deny coverage based on disability. The state will provide funding to health plans for coverage costs not already included in their plans, with the law taking effect on January 1, 2026.