Requires health insurers, SHBP, SEHBP, and NJ FamilyCare coverage for sign language interpreter services for covered individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.

This bill requires all health insurance plans in New Jersey - including employer-sponsored plans (SHBP/SEHBP) and state programs (NJ FamilyCare) - to cover qualified sign language interpreter services during medical appointments for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. It mandates coverage for in-person interpreters or video remote services when in-person options are unavailable, with specific safety exceptions (e.g., prohibiting family interpreters in suspected domestic violence or child abuse cases). Insurers must cover these services at the same level as other medical expenses, and interpreters must be certified by New Jersey’s Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf or an approved organization. The bill directly affects deaf and hard of hearing residents seeking medical care by ensuring access to communication support during health encounters.