Rep. Hartsook on Governor Polis’ Signing of Bill Requiring Health-Care Coverage for Biomarker Testing

(Denver, CO - June 3, 2024) – Representative Anthony Hartsook recognized Governor Polis’ recent signing of a bill that will help save lives and improve the quality of life through the latest methods of biomarker testing for cancer patients.

SB24-124 increases coverage for biomarker testing in all state-regulated large-group health benefit plans in Colorado. Biomarker testing uses patient tissue, blood, or bodily fluids to check genes, proteins, and other molecules for indicators of cancer or other diseases. This same testing can also be used to check for changes in genes or chromosomes which could increase a person’s health risks.

“I am proud to be on a bill that helps patients identify the specific type of cancer and provides doctors with information to develop pinpoint treatment for the specific cancer. This will provide patients with more accurate treatment and more opportunities for a better quality of life,” said Rep. Anthony Hartsook. “Anything we can do to give people a fighting chance at living is worth it. Adding coverage for biomarker testing will also reduce evident disparities in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases," concluded Hartsook.

By passing this bill, Colorado joins several other states that have passed similar legislation on biomarker coverage over the past four years including Arizona, California, Illinois, Louisiana, and Rhode Island.