CHEYENNE, WYOMING — Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon has signed into law a bill aimed at establishing a hearing aid program for low-income adults in the state. The legislation, SF0057 – Wyoming Adult Hearing Aid Program, is set to create a significant opportunity for eligible individuals with hearing loss.
The initiative, which emerged from discussions held by bill sponsor Senator Dan Furphy with members of the Wyoming Deaf and Hard of Hearing community, is designed to address the needs of adults with severe hearing loss who meet specific income criteria.
Under the program, eligible individuals will have access to hearing aids.
Wyoming Hearing Aid Program
According to the text of the bill, the Wyoming Department of Health will administer the program, subject to available state funding. Eligibility for the program will exclude individuals who are already covered for hearing aids through private insurance, Medicaid, Medicare, or any other third-party payer.
Key provisions of the bill include the following benefits for eligible participants:
- Provision of up to one hearing aid per ear at a cost not exceeding the rate established under the Wyoming Medical Assistance and Services Act, inclusive of hearing aid insurance for loss or damage.
- Access to a hearing aid fitting at a cost not exceeding the rate set forth under the Wyoming Medical Assistance and Services Act.
- Provision of an initial set of ear molds at a cost not exceeding the rate established under the Wyoming Medical Assistance and Services Act.
Additionally, the Wyoming Department of Health will promulgate rules and regulations to facilitate the implementation of the program.
Funding for the initiative includes allocations for staffing and the procurement of hearing aids, molds, and fittings. The bill also includes provisions for the appropriation of funds from the general fund to support program operations until June 30, 2026.
The legislation is set to take effect on July 1, 2024, with certain provisions becoming effective immediately upon completion of all necessary legislative procedures.
For more information, individuals may refer to the official text of the bill, SF0057