HB 954: RELATING TO PRIOR AUTHORIZATION.

Official summary

Abstract published by the legislature (via Open States). Text as published by the legislature; reproduced verbatim.

Establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for prior authorization process in the State, including disclosure and notice requirements for utilization review entities regarding their prior authorization requirements and restrictions; qualifications and criteria for prior authorization review and appeals personnel; prior authorization process for non-urgent and urgent health care services, including the time frame by which utilization review entities must render a decision; adverse determination and appeal processes; prohibition of prior authorization for emergency health care services and medication for opioid use disorder; payments to health care providers; length and duration of prior authorizations; and exemptions for certain health care providers. Requires health insurers to utilize NCPDP SCRIPT Standard electronic prior authorization transactions by 1/1/2026. Requires utilization review entities to submit annual reports to the Insurance Commissioner each year. Requires the Insurance Commissioner to submit annual reports to the Legislature. Requires the Insurance Commissioner to adopt rules by 1/1/2026.

Sponsors

Sponsors by party (alphabetical): Democratic 1

“Support” is shown only as formal sponsorship recorded by the legislature. Roll-call votes are available on the official bill page.

Recent official actions

1. December 8, 2025Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
2. January 23, 2025Introduced and Pass First Reading.
3. January 23, 2025Referred to HLT, CPC, FIN, referral sheet 3
4. January 21, 2025Pending introduction.