Oklahoma Lawmakers Override Governor’s Veto on Breast Cancer Screening Bill
In a decisive late-night vote on Thursday, Oklahoma lawmakers successfully overrode Governor Kevin Stitt’s veto of House Bill 1389, a significant bipartisan initiative aimed at enhancing insurance coverage for advanced breast cancer screenings. The Senate passed the bill with an overwhelming 42–2 vote, marking a critical victory for advocates who argue that increased access to diagnostic tools will save lives.
Initially, Governor Stitt rejected the bill, citing concerns that it would lead to higher insurance costs for families. However, bipartisan legislators united in favor of the bill, stating that early detection is key to preventive care for women across the state. House Bill 1389 updates the state’s mammography screening requirements, mandating insurance coverage for a range of diagnostic and supplemental exams. This includes low-dose mammography screenings, diagnostic tests for suspected abnormalities, and supplemental exams for high-risk individuals—all covered without deductibles or co-pays.
Senator Brenda Stanley, a Republican and primary sponsor of the bill, celebrated its passage and expressed gratitude for the collaborative effort: “We’ve done it — and we’ve done it well!” Rep. Melissa Provenzano, the bill’s House author, echoed this sentiment on social media, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing human health over political concerns.
Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond also commended the legislature for overriding the governor, asserting that the move will result in life-saving preventative care for women. The law is set to take effect on November 1, 2025, allowing time for insurance providers and healthcare systems to adjust to the new mandates. As of Friday morning, the governor’s office has yet to provide a formal response to the legislative override.
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