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6/20/2025
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Assembly approves McEntee, Raptakis bill to increase insurance coverage for hearing aids
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STATE HOUSE – The General Assembly today passed legislation sponsored by Rep. Carol Hagan McEntee and Sen. Leonidas P. Raptakis that would increase insurance coverage for hearing aids.
“Daily costs are still rising across the board, and that includes the price of hearing aids. People need their hearing aids, it is not a choice, and this bill will help cover the costs of these essential devices. This bill will be helpful for our state’s aging population, especially since hearing loss has been linked to dementia, depression and social isolation. It will also be beneficial for parents with children who have hearing loss, with children possibly losing their expensive hearing aids more than adults,” said Representative McEntee (D-Dist. 33, South Kingstown, Narragansett).
“Too many Rhode Islanders are struggling these days and the people of Rhode Island need some assistance and support. Hearing aids are critical to individuals who need them and rely upon them to go about their day. This legislation will keep more money in individuals’ pockets by increasing the amount insurance companies will pay to buy hearing aids,” said Senator Raptakis (D-Dist. 33, Coventry, West Greenwich).
The legislation (2025-H 5218, 2025-S 0120) would increase insurance coverage for hearing aids from $1,500 to $1,750, per ear, for all people regardless of age. The legislation allows hearing aid purchases every year instead of every three years, and applies to everyone, including children. It now heads to the governor for consideration.
For more information, contact:
Andrew Caruolo, Publicist
State House Room 20
Providence, RI 02903
(401)222-6124
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