Committee backs bill to expand insurance coverage for orthotics and prosthetics after moving testimony from children and families

A Senate appropriations committee moved CS for SB 1110 forward after multiple public statements from people who use orthotics and prosthetics and from clinicians and industry groups. The measure would require Medicaid to cover specified orthotics and prosthetics, direct the Agency for Health Care Administration to seek federal approvals as needed and require private insurers and HMOs to cover medically necessary devices without lifetime or continuous‑use caps for defined eligible groups.

The most notable testimony came from students and families who described how activity‑specific devices — running blades, swimming legs and gymnastics prosthetics — enable children to participate in sports, improve confidence, and in some cases change life trajectories. Toby King, a senior at North Florida Christian School who uses a running blade and a swimming leg, told the committee that activity‑specific prosthetics let him “join in instead of watching from the sidelines.” He and other witnesses recounted families paying tens of thousands of dollars for specialized devices; one parent said a set of gymnastics prosthetics cost about $45,000 without insurance coverage.

Supporters stressed equity and inclusion: advocates argued the bill treats activity prosthetics as medical needs that help children participate in school and athletics, not optional extras. Sponsor remarks noted the bill also requires reporting to track coverage and payments.

Opponents raised budgetary questions but many senators across the aisle praised the testimony. The committee reported the bill favorably on a roll call.

Ending: The bill advances with broad bipartisan support in committee; sponsors and witnesses said they intend to track implementation and reporting requirements.