AR SB87

Requires all state and public school employee health benefit plans offered, issued, or renewed on or after January 1, 2023, to provide coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of morbid obesity.

Defines morbid obesity as weight at least two times ideal body weight or body mass index of 35 kg/m² with comorbid conditions, or BMI greater than 40 kg/m².

Mandates coverage include bariatric surgery options: gastric bypass, adjustable gastric banding, sleeve gastrectomy, and duodenal switch biliopancreatic diversion.

Prioritizes coverage for participants with specific diagnoses where bariatric surgery reduces healthcare costs, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, sleep apnea, hypertension, and fatty liver disease, with additional diagnoses determined by the Director of Employee Benefits Division in consultation with University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences.

Declares an emergency effective upon Governor approval, citing the need to provide sustainable and affordable health benefits to state and public school employees.