HI HCR103

Request the Auditor to conduct an impact assessment of mandating health insurance coverage for tobacco cessation, pursuant to Hawaii Revised Statutes sections 23-51 and 23-52.

Proposed mandated coverage should include telephone, individual and group counseling, and prescription coverage for all FDA-approved nicotine replacement products and tobacco cessation medications recommended by the United States Public Health Service.

Mandated coverage should have no co-payments, prior authorization requirements, annual or lifetime limits on cessation attempts, limits on treatment duration, or requirements that less costly medications be used first.

Auditor to report findings and recommendations to the Legislature no later than 20 days prior to the convening of the Regular Session of 2012.

Certified copies to be transmitted to the Auditor and Insurance Commissioner, who shall distribute to all health insurers in the state.