House Passes HB 152, Madeline's Law

COLUMBUS – The House voted to pass House Bill 152—also named Madeline’s Law—today. The bill was joint sponsored by State Reps. Casey Weinstein (D-Hudson) and Bob Young (R-Green). 

Newborn hearing screening has become universal in hospitals across the United States, and children with hearing loss are being identified and treated at much younger ages. While hearing aids play a critical role in early intervention to support speech and language development, childhood hearing aids are still considered “cosmetic devices” by many insurance providers in Ohio. When these devices are not covered, it can leave families with a bill of up to $6,000. 

House Bill 152 would require health insurers to cover up to $2,500 per individual hearing aid every 48 months for enrolled Ohioans under the age of 22. The bill also requires coverage for related services such as fittings and hearing exams.

“This bill is a step forward in supporting Ohio kids and families, and I am so proud that it received overwhelming bipartisan support,” said Weinstein. “I believe that every child has the right to hear, grow, and thrive, and passing Madeline’s Law sends a message that we are fighting to make that a reality in Ohio.”

Madeline’s Law passed unanimously out of the House Insurance Committee last week. If signed into law, HB 152 would add Ohio to the list of 25 other states that require insurance providers to cover hearing aid costs for children. Madeline’s Law—named after Ohio native Madeline Rohlin—was first introduced in the 133rd General Assembly. 

The bill now awaits further hearings in the Senate.