New Jersey 222nd Legislature Status: Introduced Bipartisan · 14 D · 4 R cosponsors

S 1796 — Expands requirements for health insurance carriers concerning prostate cancer screening and requires coverage be provided without cost sharing.

Last action — REF SBA

  1. 1
    Introduced
  2. 2
    In Committee
  3. 3
    Passed Senate
  4. 4
    Passed General Assembly
  5. 5
    To Executive
  6. 6
    Enacted

This bill has been introduced in the Senate. Introduced January 13, 2026. It must pass committee before a floor vote.

Next likely step: a committee referral and hearing.

Odds of enactment

Low chance

Based on the sponsor, cosponsors, and committee posture, this bill has a low chance of becoming law.

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A statistical estimate from our own model of past outcomes — an insight, not a guarantee. Policymaking is volatile.

Prognosis

Advancing 54% · moderate confidence

  • Introduced

    Current position in the legislative process.

  • 18 sponsors

    2 primary, 16 co-sponsors signed on.

  • Bipartisan support

    Sponsored across 2 parties (14 D · 4 R) — cross-party backing.

  • Cleared a recorded vote

    Passed 1 recorded vote so far.

Based on stage, sponsorship breadth, committee status, recorded votes, and cross-state momentum — a description of the observable signals, not a prediction.

Summary

Prostate cancer screening-expands requirements for health insurance carriers

Bill Text

What changed in the latest version

263 added · 124 removed

Plain-language change summary

The amendment adds that prostate cancer screening must follow the latest nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines and removes the age requirement for men between 40 and 75 years for these benefits. Additionally, it clarifies that the provisions will apply to high-deductible health plans and catastrophic plans according to federal law. This means that more men may be eligible for prostate cancer screening without age limitations, and insurance plans must comply with federal regulations regarding coverage.

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S1796 SENATE, No.
S1796 1R [First Reprint] SENATE, No.
Senators Gopal, Greenstein, A.M.Bucco, Amato, Lagana, Burgess, Beach, Turner, Ruiz, Johnson and Zwicker         SYNOPSIS      Expands requirements for health insurance carriers concerning prostate cancer screening and requires coverage be provided without cost sharing.
Senators Gopal, Greenstein, A.M.Bucco, Amato, Lagana, Burgess, Beach, Turner, Ruiz, Johnson, Zwicker, Diegnan, Space, McKeon, Steinhardt and McKnight         SYNOPSIS      Expands requirements for health insurance carriers concerning prostate cancer screening and requires coverage be provided without cost sharing.
  CURRENT VERSION OF TEXT      Introduced Pending Technical Review by Legislative Counsel.
  CURRENT VERSION OF TEXT      As reported by the Senate Commerce Committee on March 16, 2026, with amendments.
     1.    a.  No health service corporation contract providing hospital or medical expense benefits [for groups with greater than 49 persons] shall be delivered, issued, executed or renewed in this State, or approved for issuance or renewal in this State by the Commissioner of Insurance on or after the effective date of [this act] P.L.1996, c.125 (C.17:48E-35.13 et al.), unless the contract provides benefits to any named subscriber or other person covered thereunder for expenses incurred in conducting an annual [medically recognized diagnostic examination including, but not limited to, a digital rectal examination and a prostate-specific antigen test for men age 50 and over who are asymptomatic and for men age 40 and over with a family history of prostate cancer or other prostate cancer risk factors] prostate cancer screening.
     1.    a.  No health service corporation contract providing hospital or medical expense benefits [for groups with greater than 49 persons] shall be delivered, issued, executed or renewed in this State, or approved for issuance or renewal in this State by the Commissioner of Insurance on or after the effective date of [this act] P.L.1996, c.125 (C.17:48E-35.13 et al.), unless the contract provides benefits to any named subscriber or other person covered thereunder for expenses incurred in conducting an annual [medically recognized diagnostic examination including, but not limited to, a digital rectal examination and a prostate-specific antigen test for men age 50 and over who are asymptomatic and for men age 40 and over with a family history of prostate cancer or other prostate cancer risk factors] prostate cancer screening 1in accordance with the latest nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines1.
     The benefits shall be provided to the same extent as for any other medical condition under the contract except that no deductible, coinsurance, copayment, or any other cost-sharing requirement on the benefits shall be imposed for men who are between 40 and 75 years of age.
     The benefits shall be provided to the same extent as for any other medical condition under the contract except that no deductible, coinsurance, copayment, or any other cost-sharing requirement on the benefits shall be imposed 1[for men who are between 40 and 75 years of age]1.
     b.    As used in this section:
     1The provisions of this section shall apply to a high-deductible health plan to the maximum extent permitted by federal law, except if the plan is used to establish a medical savings account pursuant to section 220 of the federal Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (26 U.S.C.
     “Prostate cancer screening” means medically viable methods for the detection and diagnosis of prostate cancer, which includes a digital rectal exam and the prostate-specific antigen test and associated laboratory work.  “Prostate cancer screening” shall also include subsequent follow up testing as direct by a health care provider, including, but not limited to:
s.220) or a health savings account pursuant to section 223 of the federal Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (26 U.S.C.
s.223).  The provisions of this section shall apply to the plan to the maximum extent that is permitted by federal law and does not disqualify the account for the deduction allowed under section 220 or 223 of the federal Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as applicable.  The provisions of this section shall apply to a plan that meets the requirements of a catastrophic plan, as defined in 45 C.F.R.
s.156.155, to the maximum extent permitted by federal law.1      b.    As used in this section:
     1[“Prostate cancer screening” means medically viable methods for the detection and diagnosis of prostate cancer, which includes a digital rectal exam and the prostate-specific antigen test and associated laboratory work.  “Prostate cancer screening” shall also include subsequent follow up testing as direct by a health care provider, including, but not limited to:
     (3)   medical imaging, including, but not limited to, magnetic resonance imaging.
     (3)   medical imaging, including, but not limited to, magnetic resonance imaging]      “Nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines” means evidence-based clinical practice guidelines developed by independent organizations or medical professional societies utilizing a transparent methodology and reporting structure and with a conflict of interest policy.  The guidelines establish standards of care informed by a systematic review of evidence and an assessment of the benefits and risks of alternative care options and include recommendations intended to optimize patient care1.
P.L.1996, c.125, s.1)      2.    Section 2 of P.L.1996, c.125 (C.17:48-6p) is amended to read as follows:
P.L.1996, c.125, s.1)        2.    Section 2 of P.L.1996, c.125 (C.17:48-6p) is amended to read as follows:
     2.    a.  No hospital service corporation contract providing hospital or medical expense benefits [for groups with greater than 49 persons] shall be delivered, issued, executed or renewed in this State, or approved for issuance or renewal in this State by the Commissioner of Insurance on or after the effective date of [this act] P.L.1996, c.125 (C.17:48E-35.13 et al.), unless the contract provides benefits to any named subscriber or other person covered thereunder for expenses incurred in conducting an annual [medically recognized diagnostic examination including, but not limited to, a digital rectal examination and a prostate-specific antigen test for men age 50 and over who are asymptomatic and for men age 40 and over with a family history of prostate cancer or other prostate cancer risk factors] prostate cancer screening.
     2.    a.  No hospital service corporation contract providing hospital or medical expense benefits [for groups with greater than 49 persons] shall be delivered, issued, executed or renewed in this State, or approved for issuance or renewal in this State by the Commissioner of Insurance on or after the effective date of [this act] P.L.1996, c.125 (C.17:48E-35.13 et al.), unless the contract provides benefits to any named subscriber or other person covered thereunder for expenses incurred in conducting an annual [medically recognized diagnostic examination including, but not limited to, a digital rectal examination and a prostate-specific antigen test for men age 50 and over who are asymptomatic and for men age 40 and over with a family history of prostate cancer or other prostate cancer risk factors] prostate cancer screening 1in accordance with the latest nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines1.
     The benefits shall be provided to the same extent as for any other medical condition under the contract except that no deductible, coinsurance, copayment, or any other cost-sharing requirement on the benefits shall be imposed for men who are between 40 and 75 years of age.
     The benefits shall be provided to the same extent as for any other medical condition under the contract except that no deductible, coinsurance, copayment, or any other cost-sharing requirement on the benefits shall be imposed 1[for men who are between 40 and 75 years of age]1.
     b.    As used in this section:
     1The provisions of this section shall apply to a high-deductible health plan to the maximum extent permitted by federal law, except if the plan is used to establish a medical savings account pursuant to section 220 of the federal Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (26 U.S.C.
     “Prostate cancer screening” means medically viable methods for the detection and diagnosis of prostate cancer, which includes a digital rectal exam and the prostate-specific antigen test and associated laboratory work.  “Prostate cancer screening” shall also include subsequent follow up testing as direct by a health care provider, including, but not limited to:
s.220) or a health savings account pursuant to section 223 of the federal Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (26 U.S.C.
s.223).  The provisions of this section shall apply to the plan to the maximum extent that is permitted by federal law and does not disqualify the account for the deduction allowed under section 220 or 223 of the federal Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as applicable.  The provisions of this section shall apply to a plan that meets the requirements of a catastrophic plan, as defined in 45 C.F.R.
s.156.155, to the maximum extent permitted by federal law.1      b.    As used in this section:
     1[“Prostate cancer screening” means medically viable methods for the detection and diagnosis of prostate cancer, which includes a digital rectal exam and the prostate-specific antigen test and associated laboratory work.  “Prostate cancer screening” shall also include subsequent follow up testing as direct by a health care provider, including, but not limited to:
     (3)   medical imaging, including, but not limited to, magnetic resonance imaging.
     (3)   medical imaging, including, but not limited to, magnetic resonance imaging]      “Nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines” means evidence-based clinical practice guidelines developed by independent organizations or medical professional societies utilizing a transparent methodology and reporting structure and with a conflict of interest policy.  The guidelines establish standards of care informed by a systematic review of evidence and an assessment of the benefits and risks of alternative care options and include recommendations intended to optimize patient care1.
     3.    a.  No medical service corporation contract providing hospital or medical expense benefits [for groups with greater than 49 persons] shall be delivered, issued, executed or renewed in this State, or approved for issuance or renewal in this State by the Commissioner of Insurance on or after the effective date of [this act] P.L.1996, c.125 (C.17:48E-35.13 et al.), unless the contract provides benefits to any named subscriber or other person covered thereunder for expenses incurred in conducting an annual [medically recognized diagnostic examination including, but not limited to, a digital rectal examination and a prostate-specific anitgen test for men age 50 and over who are asymptomatic and for men age 40 and over with a family history of prostate cancer or other prostate cancer risk factors] prostate cancer screening.
     3.    a.  No medical service corporation contract providing hospital or medical expense benefits [for groups with greater than 49 persons] shall be delivered, issued, executed or renewed in this State, or approved for issuance or renewal in this State by the Commissioner of Insurance on or after the effective date of [this act] P.L.1996, c.125 (C.17:48E-35.13 et al.), unless the contract provides benefits to any named subscriber or other person covered thereunder for expenses incurred in conducting an annual [medically recognized diagnostic examination including, but not limited to, a digital rectal examination and a prostate-specific anitgen test for men age 50 and over who are asymptomatic and for men age 40 and over with a family history of prostate cancer or other prostate cancer risk factors] prostate cancer screening 1in accordance with the latest nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines1.
     The benefits shall be provided to the same extent as for any other medical condition under the contract except that no deductible, coinsurance, copayment, or any other cost-sharing requirement on the benefits shall be imposed for men who are between 40 and 75 years of age.
     The benefits shall be provided to the same extent as for any other medical condition under the contract except that no deductible, coinsurance, copayment, or any other cost-sharing requirement on the benefits shall be imposed 1[for men who are between 40 and 75 years of age]1.
     b.    As used in this section:
     1The provisions of this section shall apply to a high-deductible health plan to the maximum extent permitted by federal law, except if the plan is used to establish a medical savings account pursuant to section 220 of the federal Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (26 U.S.C.
     “Prostate cancer screening” means medically viable methods for the detection and diagnosis of prostate cancer, which includes a digital rectal exam and the prostate-specific antigen test and associated laboratory work.  “Prostate cancer screening” shall also include subsequent follow up testing as direct by a health care provider, including, but not limited to:
s.220) or a health savings account pursuant to section 223 of the federal Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (26 U.S.C.
s.223).  The provisions of this section shall apply to the plan to the maximum extent that is permitted by federal law and does not disqualify the account for the deduction allowed under section 220 or 223 of the federal Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as applicable.  The provisions of this section shall apply to a plan that meets the requirements of a catastrophic plan, as defined in 45 C.F.R.
s.156.155, to the maximum extent permitted by federal law.1      b.    As used in this section:
     1[“Prostate cancer screening” means medically viable methods for the detection and diagnosis of prostate cancer, which includes a digital rectal exam and the prostate-specific antigen test and associated laboratory work.  “Prostate cancer screening” shall also include subsequent follow up testing as direct by a health care provider, including, but not limited to:
     (3)   medical imaging, including, but not limited to, magnetic resonance imaging.
     (3)   medical imaging, including, but not limited to, magnetic resonance imaging]      “Nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines” means evidence-based clinical practice guidelines developed by independent organizations or medical professional societies utilizing a transparent methodology and reporting structure and with a conflict of interest policy.  The guidelines establish standards of care informed by a systematic review of evidence and an assessment of the benefits and risks of alternative care options and include recommendations intended to optimize patient care1.
P.L.1996, c.125, s.3)        4.    Section 4 of P.L.1996, c.125 (C.17B:27-46.1o) is amended to read as follows:
P.L.1996, c.125, s.3)      4.    Section 4 of P.L.1996, c.125 (C.17B:27-46.1o) is amended to read as follows:
     4.  a.  No group health insurance policy providing hospital or medical expense benefits [for groups with greater than 49 persons] shall be delivered, issued, executed or renewed in this State, or approved for issuance or renewal in this State by the Commissioner of Insurance on or after the effective date of [this act] P.L.1996, c.125 (C.17:48E-35.13 et al.), unless the policy provides benefits to any named insured or other person covered thereunder for expenses incurred in conducting an annual [medically recognized diagnostic examination including, but not limited to, a digital rectal examination and a prostate-specific antigen test for men age 50 and over who are asymptomatic and for men age 40 and over with a family history of  prostate cancer or other prostate cancer risk factors] prostate cancer screening.
     4.  a.  No group health insurance policy providing hospital or medical expense benefits [for groups with greater than 49 persons] shall be delivered, issued, executed or renewed in this State, or approved for issuance or renewal in this State by the Commissioner of Insurance on or after the effective date of [this act] P.L.1996, c.125 (C.17:48E-35.13 et al.), unless the policy provides benefits to any named insured or other person covered thereunder for expenses incurred in conducting an annual [medically recognized diagnostic examination including, but not limited to, a digital rectal examination and a prostate-specific antigen test for men age 50 and over who are asymptomatic and for men age 40 and over with a family history of  prostate cancer or other prostate cancer risk factors] prostate cancer screening 1in accordance with the latest nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines1.
     The benefits shall be provided to the same extent as for any other medical condition under the policy except that no deductible, coinsurance, copayment, or any other cost-sharing requirement on the benefits shall be imposed for men who are between 40 and 75 years of age.
     The benefits shall be provided to the same extent as for any other medical condition under the policy except that no deductible, coinsurance, copayment, or any other cost-sharing requirement on the benefits shall be imposed 1[for men who are between 40 and 75 years of age]1.
     b.    As used in this section:
     1The provisions of this section shall apply to a high-deductible health plan to the maximum extent permitted by federal law, except if the plan is used to establish a medical savings account pursuant to section 220 of the federal Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (26 U.S.C.
     “Prostate cancer screening” means medically viable methods for the detection and diagnosis of prostate cancer, which includes a digital rectal exam and the prostate-specific antigen test and associated laboratory work.  “Prostate cancer screening” shall also include subsequent follow up testing as direct by a health care provider, including, but not limited to:
s.220) or a health savings account pursuant to section 223 of the federal Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (26 U.S.C.
s.223).  The provisions of this section shall apply to the plan to the maximum extent that is permitted by federal law and does not disqualify the account for the deduction allowed under section 220 or 223 of the federal Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as applicable.  The provisions of this section shall apply to a plan that meets the requirements of a catastrophic plan, as defined in 45 C.F.R.
s.156.155, to the maximum extent permitted by federal law.1      b.    As used in this section:
     1[“Prostate cancer screening” means medically viable methods for the detection and diagnosis of prostate cancer, which includes a digital rectal exam and the prostate-specific antigen test and associated laboratory work.  “Prostate cancer screening” shall also include subsequent follow up testing as direct by a health care provider, including, but not limited to:
     (3)   medical imaging, including, but not limited to, magnetic resonance imaging.
     (3)   medical imaging, including, but not limited to, magnetic resonance imaging]      “Nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines” means evidence-based clinical practice guidelines developed by independent organizations or medical professional societies utilizing a transparent methodology and reporting structure and with a conflict of interest policy.  The guidelines establish standards of care informed by a systematic review of evidence and an assessment of the benefits and risks of alternative care options and include recommendations intended to optimize patient care1.
     5.    a.  A certificate of authority to establish and operate a health maintenance organization in this State shall not be issued or continued by the Commissioner of Health on or after the effective date of [this act] P.L.1996, c.125 (C.17:48E-35.13 et al.) unless the health maintenance organization provides health care services to any enrollee which include an annual [medically recognized diagnostic examination including, but not limited to, a digital rectal examination and a prostate-specific antigen test for men age 50 and over who are asymptomatic and for men age 40 and over with a family history of  prostate cancer or other prostate cancer risk factors] prostate cancer screening.
     5.    a.  A certificate of authority to establish and operate a health maintenance organization in this State shall not be issued or continued by the Commissioner of Health on or after the effective date of [this act] P.L.1996, c.125 (C.17:48E-35.13 et al.) unless the health maintenance organization provides health care services to any enrollee which include an annual [medically recognized diagnostic examination including, but not limited to, a digital rectal examination and a prostate-specific antigen test for men age 50 and over who are asymptomatic and for men age 40 and over with a family history of  prostate cancer or other prostate cancer risk factors] prostate cancer screening 1in accordance with the latest nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines1.
     The health care services shall be provided to the same extent as for any other medical condition under the contract except that no deductible, coinsurance, copayment, or any other cost-sharing requirement on the services shall be imposed for men who are between 40 and 75 years of age.
     The health care services shall be provided to the same extent as for any other medical condition under the contract except that no deductible, coinsurance, copayment, or any other cost-sharing requirement on the services shall be imposed 1[for men who are between 40 and 75 years of age]1.
     b.    As used in this section:
     1The provisions of this section shall apply to a high-deductible health plan to the maximum extent permitted by federal law, except if the plan is used to establish a medical savings account pursuant to section 220 of the federal Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (26 U.S.C.
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     “Prostate cancer screening” means medically viable methods for the detection and diagnosis of prostate cancer, which includes a digital rectal exam and the prostate-specific antigen test and associated laboratory work.  “Prostate cancer screening” shall also include subsequent follow up testing as directed by a health care provider, including, but not limited to:
s.220) or a health savings account pursuant to section 223 of the federal Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (26 U.S.C.
s.223).  The provisions of this section shall apply to the plan to the maximum extent that is permitted by federal law and does not disqualify the account for the deduction allowed under section 220 or 223 of the federal Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as applicable.  The provisions of this section shall apply to a plan that meets the requirements of a catastrophic plan, as defined in 45 C.F.R.
s.156.155, to the maximum extent permitted by federal law.1      b.    As used in this section:
     1[“Prostate cancer screening” means medically viable methods for the detection and diagnosis of prostate cancer, which includes a digital rectal exam and the prostate-specific antigen test and associated laboratory work.  “Prostate cancer screening” shall also include subsequent follow up testing as directed by a health care provider, including, but not limited to:
     (3)   medical imaging, including, but not limited to, magnetic resonance imaging.
     (3)   medical imaging, including, but not limited to, magnetic resonance imaging]      “Nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines” means evidence-based clinical practice guidelines developed by independent organizations or medical professional societies utilizing a transparent methodology and reporting structure and with a conflict of interest policy.  The guidelines establish standards of care informed by a systematic review of evidence and an assessment of the benefits and risks of alternative care options and include recommendations intended to optimize patient care1.
P.L.1996, c.125, s.5)        6.    (New section)  a.  Every individual health insurance policy that provides hospital or medical expense benefits and is delivered, issued, executed or renewed in this State pursuant to chapter 26 of Title 17B of the New Jersey Statutes, or approved for issuance or renewal in this State by the Commissioner of Banking and Insurance, on or after the effective date of this act shall provide coverage for an annual prostate cancer screening.
P.L.1996, c.125, s.5)        6.    (New section)  a.  Every individual health insurance policy that provides hospital or medical expense benefits and is delivered, issued, executed or renewed in this State pursuant to chapter 26 of Title 17B of the New Jersey Statutes, or approved for issuance or renewal in this State by the Commissioner of Banking and Insurance, on or after the effective date of this act shall provide coverage for an annual prostate cancer screening 1in accordance with the latest nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines1.
     The benefits shall be provided to the same extent as for any other medical condition under the contract except that no deductible, coinsurance, copayment, or any other cost-sharing requirement on the services shall be imposed for men who are between 40 and 75 years of age.
     The benefits shall be provided to the same extent as for any other medical condition under the contract except that no deductible, coinsurance, copayment, or any other cost-sharing requirement on the services shall be imposed 1[for men who are between 40 and 75 years of age]1.
     b.    As used in this section:
     1The provisions of this section shall apply to a high-deductible health plan to the maximum extent permitted by federal law, except if the plan is used to establish a medical savings account pursuant to section 220 of the federal Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (26 U.S.C.
     “Prostate cancer screening” means medically viable methods for the detection and diagnosis of prostate cancer, which includes a digital rectal exam and the prostate-specific antigen test and associated laboratory work.  “Prostate cancer screening” shall also include subsequent follow up testing as direct by a health care provider, including, but not limited to:
s.220) or a health savings account pursuant to section 223 of the federal Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (26 U.S.C.
s.223).  The provisions of this section shall apply to the plan to the maximum extent that is permitted by federal law and does not disqualify the account for the deduction allowed under section 220 or 223 of the federal Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as applicable.  The provisions of this section shall apply to a plan that meets the requirements of a catastrophic plan, as defined in 45 C.F.R.
s.156.155, to the maximum extent permitted by federal law.1      b.    As used in this section:
     1[“Prostate cancer screening” means medically viable methods for the detection and diagnosis of prostate cancer, which includes a digital rectal exam and the prostate-specific antigen test and associated laboratory work.  “Prostate cancer screening” shall also include subsequent follow up testing as direct by a health care provider, including, but not limited to:
     (3)   medical imaging, including, but not limited to, magnetic resonance imaging.
     (3)   medical imaging, including, but not limited to, magnetic resonance imaging]      “Nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines” means evidence-based clinical practice guidelines developed by independent organizations or medical professional societies utilizing a transparent methodology and reporting structure and with a conflict of interest policy.  The guidelines establish standards of care informed by a systematic review of evidence and an assessment of the benefits and risks of alternative care options and include recommendations intended to optimize patient care1.
       7.    (New section)  a.  Every individual health benefits plan that provides hospital or medical expense benefits and is delivered, issued, executed or renewed in this State pursuant to P.L.1992, c.161 (C.17B:27A-2 et seq.) or approved for issuance or renewal in this State on or after the effective date of this act shall provide benefits for an annual prostate cancer screening.
       7.    (New section)  a.  Every individual health benefits plan that provides hospital or medical expense benefits and is delivered, issued, executed or renewed in this State pursuant to P.L.1992, c.161 (C.17B:27A-2 et seq.) or approved for issuance or renewal in this State on or after the effective date of this act shall provide benefits for an annual prostate cancer screening 1in accordance with the latest nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines1.
     The benefits shall be provided to the same extent as for any other medical condition under the contract except that no deductible, coinsurance, copayment, or any other cost-sharing requirement on the services shall be imposed for men who are between 40 and 75 years of age.
     The benefits shall be provided to the same extent as for any other medical condition under the contract except that no deductible, coinsurance, copayment, or any other cost-sharing requirement on the services shall be imposed 1[for men who are between 40 and 75 years of age]1.
     b.    As used in this section:
      1The provisions of this section shall apply to a high-deductible health plan to the maximum extent permitted by federal law, except if the plan is used to establish a medical savings account pursuant to section 220 of the federal Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (26 U.S.C.
     “Prostate cancer screening” means medically viable methods for the detection and diagnosis of prostate cancer, which includes a digital rectal exam and the prostate-specific antigen test and associated laboratory work.  “Prostate cancer screening” shall also include subsequent follow up testing as direct by a health care provider, including, but not limited to:
s.220) or a health savings account pursuant to section 223 of the federal Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (26 U.S.C.
s.223).  The provisions of this section shall apply to the plan to the maximum extent that is permitted by federal law and does not disqualify the account for the deduction allowed under section 220 or 223 of the federal Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as applicable.  The provisions of this section shall apply to a plan that meets the requirements of a catastrophic plan, as defined in 45 C.F.R.
s.156.155, to the maximum extent permitted by federal law.1      b.    As used in this section:
     1[“Prostate cancer screening” means medically viable methods for the detection and diagnosis of prostate cancer, which includes a digital rectal exam and the prostate-specific antigen test and associated laboratory work.  “Prostate cancer screening” shall also include subsequent follow up testing as direct by a health care provider, including, but not limited to:
     (3)   medical imaging, including, but not limited to, magnetic resonance imaging.
     (3)   medical imaging, including, but not limited to, magnetic resonance imaging]      “Nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines” means evidence-based clinical practice guidelines developed by independent organizations or medical professional societies utilizing a transparent methodology and reporting structure and with a conflict of interest policy.  The guidelines establish standards of care informed by a systematic review of evidence and an assessment of the benefits and risks of alternative care options and include recommendations intended to optimize patient care1.
 Every small employer health benefits plan that provides hospital or medical expense benefits and is delivered, issued, executed or renewed in this State pursuant to P.L.1992, c.162 (C.17B:27A-17 et seq.) or approved for issuance or renewal in this State on or after the effective date of this act shall provide benefits for an annual prostate cancer screening.
 Every small employer health benefits plan that provides hospital or medical expense benefits and is delivered, issued, executed or renewed in this State pursuant to P.L.1992, c.162 (C.17B:27A-17 et seq.) or approved for issuance or renewal in this State on or after the effective date of this act shall provide benefits for an annual prostate cancer screening 1in accordance with the latest nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines1.
     The benefits shall be provided to the same extent as for any other medical condition under the contract except that no deductible, coinsurance, copayment, or any other cost-sharing requirement on the services shall be imposed for men who are between 40 and 75 years of age.
     The benefits shall be provided to the same extent as for any other medical condition under the contract except that no deductible, coinsurance, copayment, or any other cost-sharing requirement on the services shall be imposed 1[for men who are between 40 and 75 years of age]1.
     b.    As used in this section:
     1The provisions of this section shall apply to a high-deductible health plan to the maximum extent permitted by federal law, except if the plan is used to establish a medical savings account pursuant to section 220 of the federal Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (26 U.S.C.
     “Prostate cancer screening” means medically viable methods for the detection and diagnosis of prostate cancer, which includes a digital rectal exam and the prostate-specific antigen test and associated laboratory work.  “Prostate cancer screening” shall also include subsequent follow up testing as direct by a physician, including, but not limited to:
s.220) or a health savings account pursuant to section 223 of the federal Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (26 U.S.C.
s.223).  The provisions of this section shall apply to the plan to the maximum extent that is permitted by federal law and does not disqualify the account for the deduction allowed under section 220 or 223 of the federal Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as applicable.  The provisions of this section shall apply to a plan that meets the requirements of a catastrophic plan, as defined in 45 C.F.R.
s.156.155, to the maximum extent permitted by federal law.1      b.    As used in this section:
     1[“Prostate cancer screening” means medically viable methods for the detection and diagnosis of prostate cancer, which includes a digital rectal exam and the prostate-specific antigen test and associated laboratory work.  “Prostate cancer screening” shall also include subsequent follow up testing as direct by a physician, including, but not limited to:
     (3)   medical imaging, including, but not limited to, magnetic resonance imaging.
     (3)   medical imaging, including, but not limited to, magnetic resonance imaging]      “Nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines” means evidence-based clinical practice guidelines developed by independent organizations or medical professional societies utilizing a transparent methodology and reporting structure and with a conflict of interest policy.  The guidelines establish standards of care informed by a systematic review of evidence and an assessment of the benefits and risks of alternative care options and include recommendations intended to optimize patient care1.
       9.    (New section)  a.  The State Health Benefits Commission shall ensure that every contract purchased by the commission on or after the effective date of this act that provides hospital or medical expense benefits shall provide coverage for an annual prostate cancer screening.
       9.    (New section)  a.  The State Health Benefits Commission shall ensure that every contract purchased by the commission on or after the effective date of this act that provides hospital or medical expense benefits shall provide coverage for an annual prostate cancer screening 1in accordance with the latest nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines1.
     The benefits shall be provided to the same extent as for any other medical condition under the contract except that no deductible, coinsurance, copayment, or any other cost-sharing requirement on the services shall be imposed for men who are between 40 and 75 years of age.
     The benefits shall be provided to the same extent as for any other medical condition under the contract except that no deductible, coinsurance, copayment, or any other cost-sharing requirement on the services shall be imposed 1[for men who are between 40 and 75 years of age]1.
     “Prostate cancer screening” means medically viable methods for the detection and diagnosis of prostate cancer, which includes a digital rectal exam and the prostate-specific antigen test and associated laboratory work.  “Prostate cancer screening” shall also include subsequent follow up testing as direct by a health care provider, including, but not limited to:
     1[“Prostate cancer screening” means medically viable methods for the detection and diagnosis of prostate cancer, which includes a digital rectal exam and the prostate-specific antigen test and associated laboratory work.  “Prostate cancer screening” shall also include subsequent follow up testing as direct by a health care provider, including, but not limited to:
     (3)   medical imaging, including, but not limited to, magnetic resonance imaging.
     (3)   medical imaging, including, but not limited to, magnetic resonance imaging]      “Nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines” means evidence-based clinical practice guidelines developed by independent organizations or medical professional societies utilizing a transparent methodology and reporting structure and with a conflict of interest policy.  The guidelines establish standards of care informed by a systematic review of evidence and an assessment of the benefits and risks of alternative care options and include recommendations intended to optimize patient care1.
       10.  (New section)  a.  The School Employees’ Health Benefits Commission shall ensure that every contract purchased by the commission on or after the effective date of this act that provides hospital or medical expense benefits shall provide coverage for an annual prostate cancer screening.
       10.  (New section)  a.  The School Employees’ Health Benefits Commission shall ensure that every contract purchased by the commission on or after the effective date of this act that provides hospital or medical expense benefits shall provide coverage for an annual prostate cancer screening 1in accordance with the latest nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines1.
     The benefits shall be provided to the same extent as for any other medical condition under the contract except that no deductible, coinsurance, copayment, or any other cost-sharing requirement on the services shall be imposed for men who are between 40 and 75 years of age.
     The benefits shall be provided to the same extent as for any other medical condition under the contract except that no deductible, coinsurance, copayment, or any other cost-sharing requirement on the services shall be imposed 1[for men who are between 40 and 75 years of age]1.
     “Prostate cancer screening” means medically viable methods for the detection and diagnosis of prostate cancer, which includes a digital rectal exam and the prostate-specific antigen test and associated laboratory work.  “Prostate cancer screening” shall also include subsequent follow up testing as direct by a health care provider, including, but not limited to:
     1[“Prostate cancer screening” means medically viable methods for the detection and diagnosis of prostate cancer, which includes a digital rectal exam and the prostate-specific antigen test and associated laboratory work.  “Prostate cancer screening” shall also include subsequent follow up testing as direct by a health care provider, including, but not limited to:
     (3)   medical imaging, including, but not limited to, magnetic resonance imaging.
     (3)   medical imaging, including, but not limited to, magnetic resonance imaging]      “Nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines” means evidence-based clinical practice guidelines developed by independent organizations or medical professional societies utilizing a transparent methodology and reporting structure and with a conflict of interest policy.  The guidelines establish standards of care informed by a systematic review of evidence and an assessment of the benefits and risks of alternative care options and include recommendations intended to optimize patient care1.
       11.  This act shall take effect on the 90th day next following the date of enactment and shall apply to all contracts and policies delivered, issued, executed, or renewed on or after that date.
       11.  This act shall take effect on the 90th day next following the date of enactment and shall apply to all contracts and policies delivered, issued, executed, or renewed on or after that date 1except that section 7 of this act shall take effect an apply to policies and contracts that are delivered, issued, executed, or renewed pursuant to P.L.1992, c.162 (C.17B:27A-2 et seq.) on January 1, 20271.
    STATEMENT        As amended, this bill requires health, hospital, and medical service corporations, health maintenance organizations, and commercial group health insurers to provide coverage for an annual prostate cancer screening without cost sharing for men who are between and 75 years of age.  Under current law, these health insurance carriers are required only to provide coverage for an annual medically recognized diagnostic examination including, but not limited to, a digital rectal examination and a prostate-specific antigen test for men age 50 and over who are asymptomatic and for men age 40 and over with a family history of  prostate cancer or other prostate cancer risk factors.  The bill expands the definition of “prostate cancer screening” to mean medically viable methods for the detection and diagnosis of prostate cancer, which includes a digital rectal exam and the prostate-specific antigen test and associated laboratory work.  “Prostate cancer screening” shall also include subsequent follow up testing as direct by a physician, including, but not limited to:
     (1)   urinary analysis;
     (2)   serum biomarkers;
     (3)   medical imaging, including, but not limited to, magnetic resonance imaging.
     The bill also extends the prostate cancer screening requirements to commercial individual health insurers, health benefits plans issued pursuant to the New Jersey Individual Health Coverage and Small Employer Health Benefits Programs, the State Health Benefits Program, and the School Employees’ Health Benefits Program, which are not required to provide this coverage under current law.
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Frequently asked questions

What does S 1796 do?
Prostate cancer screening-expands requirements for health insurance carriers
Who sponsors S 1796?
S 1796 is sponsored by McKnight, Angela V. (Democrat), Steinhardt, Douglas J. (Republican), McKeon, John F. (Democrat), Space, Parker (Republican), Diegnan Jr., Patrick J. (Democrat), Zwicker, Andrew (Democrat), Johnson, Gordon M. (Democrat), Ruiz, M. Teresa (Democrat), Turner, Shirley K. (Democrat), Beach, James (Democrat), Burgess, Renee C. (Democrat), Lagana, Joseph A. (Democrat), Amato Jr., Carmen F. (Republican), Bucco, Anthony M. (Republican), Greenstein, Linda R. (Democrat), Gopal, Vin (Democrat), Stack, Brian P. (Democrat), and Singleton, Troy (Democrat).
What is the current status of S 1796?
This bill has been introduced in the Senate. Introduced January 13, 2026. It must pass committee before a floor vote.
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