Today, Congressman Neal Dunn of Florida introduced the Ensuring Lasting Smiles Act (ELSA) in Washington, DC. The proposed legislation mandates that all group and individual health insurance plans cover medically necessary services for birth defects affecting the eyes, ears, teeth, mouth, or jaw. This bill aims to provide coverage for procedures that improve or restore facial function due to birth defects while excluding purely cosmetic procedures.
Congressman Dunn is collaborating with Congresswoman Kim Schrier from Washington in introducing this House legislation. Senators Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin and Joni Ernst of Iowa are spearheading the effort in the Senate.
“Many families with children who are born with congenital anomalies face significant financial barriers to accessing the treatment their child needs,” stated Congressman Dunn. He emphasized that these conditions can have long-term health consequences and expressed pride in leading this initiative alongside his colleagues.
Congresswoman Schrier highlighted the challenges faced by patients whose insurance does not cover treatment for congenital anomalies like ectodermal dysplasias and cleft lip and palate. “This bill would tackle this issue head on by requiring private health insurance plans to cover medically necessary services,” she said.
Senator Ernst noted the importance of supporting young Iowans such as Alli Steele, who was born with Ectodermal Dysplasia. She stressed that this bipartisan legislation would ensure coverage for medically necessary services related to congenital anomalies.
Senator Baldwin pointed out that many Americans face high out-of-pocket costs for medically necessary care despite having health insurance. “I’m proud to work with Democrats and Republicans to put this care in reach so more Americans can lead healthy lives,” she said.
The full text of the Ensuring Lasting Smiles Act is available for review.
