AR SB980

Amends existing law to require state and public school employee health benefit plans offered on or after January 1, 2012 to provide coverage for morbid obesity diagnosis and treatment, including bariatric surgeries (gastric bypass, adjustable gastric banding, sleeve gastrectomy, and duodenal switch biliopancreatic diversion).

Caps annual costs for morbid obesity coverage at $3,000,000 for the Arkansas State Employees Health Benefit Plan and $3,000,000 for the Arkansas Public School Employees Health Benefit Plan.

Specifies that morbid obesity coverage does not diminish or limit other benefits otherwise available under state and public school employee health benefit plans.

Changes the State and Public School Life and Health Insurance Board's authority from "shall" to "may" discontinue or suspend morbid obesity plan options if the board can demonstrate adjustments are necessary for financial soundness.

Requires the State and Public School Life and Health Insurance Program Legislative Task Force to review and approve the board's recommendation before discontinuing or suspending any morbid obesity coverage plan option.