AR HR1005

Authorizes introduction of a bill establishing coverage for diagnosis and treatment of morbid obesity under the State and Public School Life and Health Insurance Program, effective for plans offered on or after January 1, 2023.

Requires coverage to include bariatric surgery procedures: gastric bypass, adjustable gastric banding, sleeve gastrectomy, and duodenal switch biliopancreatic diversion.

Prioritizes coverage for participants with at least one qualifying diagnosis including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, sleep apnea, hypertension, and other obesity-related conditions recognized by medical science to reduce healthcare costs.

Establishes morbid obesity definitions: weight at least two times ideal body weight, or body mass index of 35 kg/m² with comorbidities, or 40 kg/m² or greater.

Declares an emergency and grants the State Board of Finance authority to establish annual expenditure limits, suspend plan options, or promulgate rules to maintain program financial soundness.