CT SB00035

Requires individual and group health insurance policies to cover the purchase of assistance dogs for individuals who are blind, deaf, mobility impaired, or have non-physical disabilities including anxiety disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Mandates that coverage is contingent upon the insured's treating health care provider certifying in writing that the assistance dog is medically necessary.

Limits coverage to assistance dogs purchased from nonprofit organizations that are established for training such dogs and are accredited members of a professional association of guide dog or assistance dog organizations.

Applies to health insurance policies covering the types specified in subdivisions (1), (2), (4), (11) and (12) of section 38a-469 of Connecticut general statutes that are delivered, issued for delivery, renewed, amended or continued in the state.

Effective date is January 1, 2017.