AR HB1351

Establishes regulatory framework for vision benefit managers in Arkansas, defining them as entities that create, promote, sell, or administer vision benefit plans, including insurers and third-party administrators

Prohibits vision benefit managers from setting reimbursement rates below current calendar year Medicare rates or using nominal/de minimis payments for covered services and materials

Bars vision benefit managers from restricting providers' choice of optical labs, suppliers, or equipment, and from varying reimbursement based on these choices or professional affiliations

Prevents steering enrollees toward specific providers or retail establishments owned by or affiliated with the vision benefit manager, and prohibits distinguishing between providers based on discounts offered on non-covered services

Prohibits use of extrapolation in provider audits, requiring refunds or additional payments to be based on actual overpayments or underpayments rather than mathematical estimates

Effective date is the earlier of: plan renewal/new issue, new or modified provider contract, or January 1, 2026