1205ca

    On the printed bill, delete everything after the enacting clause and insert:

"    Section 1. That § 58-17-84.1 be amended to read:

    58-17-84.1. Any health benefit plan as defined by § 58-17-63 shall cover anesthesia and hospital or ambulatory surgery center charges for dental care provided to a covered person who:

            (1)    Is a child under age five; or

            (2)    Is severely disabled or otherwise suffers from a developmental disability as determined by a licensed physician which places such person at serious risk If determined by a licensed physician, is severely disabled, suffers from a developmental disability, or otherwise has a medical condition that places the person at serious medical risk.

    Such The coverage applies regardless of whether the services are provided in a hospital, ambulatory surgery center, or a dental office. A health carrier may require prior authorization of hospitalization for dental care procedures in the same manner that prior authorization is required for hospitalization for other covered diseases or conditions.

    Section 2. That § 58-18-45.1 be amended to read:

    58-18-45.1. Any health benefit plan as defined by § 58-18-42 shall cover anesthesia and hospital or ambulatory surgery center charges for dental care provided to a covered person who:

            (1)    Is a child under age five; or

            (2)    Is severely disabled or otherwise suffers from a developmental disability as determined by a licensed physician which places such person at serious risk If determined by a licensed physician, is severely disabled, suffers from a developmental disability, or otherwise has a medical condition that places the person at serious medical risk.

    Such The coverage applies regardless of whether the services are provided in a hospital, ambulatory surgery center, or a dental office. A health carrier may require prior authorization of hospitalization for dental care procedures in the same manner that prior authorization is required for hospitalization for other covered diseases or conditions.

    Section 3. That the code be amended by adding a NEW SECTION to read:

    The provisions of this Act are effective the first plan year, policy year, or renewal date on or after January 1, 2019."