GENERAL ASSEMBLY PASSES GIRDLER’S BILL TO EXPAND ACCESS TO PROSTHETIC CARE
Unanimous bipartisan measure strengthens insurance coverage standards for Kentuckians who rely on prosthetic and orthotic devices
FRANKFORT, KY. (March 31, 2026)—The Kentucky General Assembly has given final approval to Senate Bill (SB) 97, sponsored by Sen. Rick Girdler, R-Somerset, to strengthen insurance coverage standards for prosthetic and orthotic devices.
The bill passed both chambers with unanimous bipartisan support and now heads to the governor’s desk. SB 97 establishes clearer statewide standards to help ensure Kentuckians who rely on prosthetic limbs and orthotic devices can access the equipment needed for daily life and specialized activities.
The House made several changes to align the bill with federal requirements and existing insurance standards. The revised version removes short-term limited duration plans from the definition of a health benefit plan and replaces the requirement to offer two in-network providers with a requirement that insurers maintain a reasonably adequate provider network consistent with Kentucky’s existing network adequacy standards.
The House version also removes certain out-of-network referral and reimbursement provisions and directs the Kentucky Department of Insurance to determine whether the coverage requirement would trigger federal cost-defrayal obligations for qualified health plans. That determination must be submitted to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. If federal officials do not respond within one year, the determination will be considered accepted. The effective date was also moved from Jan. 1, 2027, to Jan. 1, 2028.
Girdler said the legislation reflects months of collaboration among patient advocates, health care professionals, insurers, and lawmakers working to reach a thoughtful and balanced solution.
“Advancements in prosthetic and orthotic technology are allowing people to live fuller, more active lives after devastating injuries or illnesses,” Girdler said. “This legislation helps ensure coverage policies keep pace with those advancements while maintaining a responsible and workable framework for patients, providers and insurers.”
Rep. Michael Meredith, R-Oakland, who carried the bill in the House, said clearer coverage standards will benefit Kentuckians who rely on prosthetic and orthotic devices.
"This is an important step toward ensuring that Kentuckians who rely on prosthetic and orthotic devices have the support they need to live active, independent lives,” he said. “Clearer coverage standards will make a real difference for patients, helping them access the right devices for both daily living and specialized activities. I want to thank Sen. Girdler for his leadership and dedication in championing this measure, and for listening to the voices of those whose lives will be directly impacted."
With concurrence on House changes complete, SB 97 now moves to the governor’s desk for final consideration.
Learn more about bills, committees, and other important updates on the 2026 Regular Session at www.kylegislature.gov.