OLYMPIA – Health equity got a major boost this session when SHB 1669, requiring insurers to cover medically needed prosthetic limbs and braces, was signed into law. The bill’s sponsor, Rep. Monica Stonier (D-Vancouver) credits her learning and the success of this bill to her constituent, Nicole Ver Kuilen, who brought the idea forward this past summer.
“Losing a limb shouldn’t prevent someone from living a healthy, active life,” said bill sponsor Rep. Stonier. “But many insurers limit coverage to just one prosthetic every few years. It’s like expecting someone to wear the same pair of shoes every day for every activity—over the next 3 to 5 years. It’s not realistic and it’s not fair.”
The bill requires small and large group health plans issued or renewed on or after January 1, 2026 to cover multiple prosthetic limbs and custom orthotic braces per limb when medically necessary, including for activities like running, biking, or swimming.
“One of the advocates for this bill is the parent of an active three-year-old who, like most kids, prefers running to walking,” Rep. Stonier said. “Like many families, they can’t afford multiple prosthetic limbs to give their child the same mobility as his friends. This bill changes that.”
The new law also mandates coverage for all materials, components, and services needed to use the device, and repair or replacement of damaged or unfit devices if repairs would cost more than 60% of a replacement.
“Activity is a key part of a healthy lifestyle, and everyone in our community, whether they’re three or ninety-three, should be able to engage in activities that keep them healthy,” said Rep. Stonier. “A disability shouldn’t mean having to choose between performance and comfort.”
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