S. 1677 · In committee · Health

Ensuring Lasting Smiles Act

What it does

Requires group health plans and health insurance issuers to cover outpatient and inpatient items and services related to diagnosis and treatment of congenital anomalies or birth defects affecting the eyes, ears, teeth, mouth, or jaw.
Permits cost-sharing for covered services at levels no more restrictive than predominant cost-sharing for other medical and surgical benefits.
Mandates coverage of reconstructive services, diagnostic services for missing or abnormal body parts, dental and orthodontic support until treatment completion, and secondary condition follow-up related to the congenital anomaly or birth defect.
Excludes cosmetic surgery performed to reshape normal body structures to improve appearance or self-esteem when not medically necessary to treat a congenital anomaly or birth defect.
Requires health plans and issuers to provide notice to participants and beneficiaries regarding coverage of congenital anomalies or birth defects by January 1, 2026.

Mar 19, 2026: Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. Hearings held.

Committee: Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions