CA AB2004

Requires health care service plans and health insurance policies issued, amended, or renewed on or after January 1, 2017, to cover hearing aids for enrollees and insureds under 18 years of age when medically necessary.

Coverage includes initial assessment, new hearing aids at least every five years, ear molds, fittings, adjustments, auditory training, and maintenance.

Exempts Medicare supplement, dental-only, and vision-only policies from the requirement.

Provisions become inoperative if federal agencies notify the state that the age limitation constitutes discrimination under federal law and requires the state to cover hearing aids for those 18 years and older.

Mandate expires January 1, 2019, unless extended by subsequent legislation enacted before that date.