Senate Bill 331 (the Let California Kids Hear Act) has officially passed through the California Legislature and been signed by Governor Gavin Newsom!
This landmark victory marks a massive step forward for deaf and hard-of-hearing children across California. For years, thousands of families faced steep out-of-pocket costs because private health insurance plans were not required to cover pediatric hearing aids and related audiology care. SB 331 changes that landscape in a widespread and meaningful way.
What SB 331 Means for California Families
- Expanded Insurance Coverage: Large group health insurance plans in California will now be required to cover pediatric hearing aids and related audiologic services for children.
- Relief from High Out-of-Pocket Costs: Hearing aids can cost thousands of dollars per pair and need to be replaced every few years as children grow.
- Financial Support: This law lifts a heavy financial burden off parents, approximately $3,000 per device every few years. Early Access for Critical Development: Access to sound during early childhood is vital for language, speech, and cognitive development. SB 331 helps ensure kids get the devices they need without developmental delays caused by financial barriers.
- Equal Footing for Kids: Thousands of children will finally have guaranteed access to the tools they need to thrive in school, social settings, and everyday life.
This accomplishment is a direct result of the tireless advocacy from Senator Caroline Menjivar Let California Kids Hear, California Hands & Voices Cchat Center Sacramento and so many more parents, pediatricians, audiologists, and community advocates who spoke up and demanded change. The law will go into effect January 1st, 2028.
Thank you to everyone in our community who wrote letters, made calls, and shared their stories to make this moment possible. Together, we are building a state where every child has the opportunity to hear, communicate, and reach their full potential.
