Last January, my children and I went to the capitol in Tallahassee seeking support for The Hearing Care for Children Act. The Act would require private insurances in the state of Florida to cover hearing aids for children 0-21, similar to bills in 24 other states as well subsidized insurances in all states. Unfortunately, the bills (Senate Bill 890 and House Bill 1427) did not make it out of committee to be presented to the full Senate and House.
We are heading back March 6, 2019, when session picks back up.
Students from The University of South Florida, The University of Florida and Nova Southeastern, Florida State University along with audiologists from around the state, and families of hearing-impaired children, including my own will be passing out flyers with information and statistics regarding hearing loss and it’s impacts to Florida. Additionally, we will be meeting with legislators to discuss these facts seeking support.
I feel passionate about this bill not only personally, but professionally. Having two hearing impaired children and working with many hearing impaired children throughout my career, I feel this bill is a must.
If you feel passionate about this, you are more than welcome to join us! Otherwise, please contact your local representatives to encourage their support. You can find yours at Flsenate.gov or myfloridahouse.gov