STEINHARDT BILL TO IMPROVE COVERAGE FOR LIPEDEMA PATIENTS PASSES COMMITTEE

The following information was released by the New Jersey State Senate, Republicans:

Doug Steinhardt Posted on May 26, 2026

Senator Doug Steinhardts (R-Hunterdon, Somerset, Warren) bill that would require health insurers to provide coverage for the treatment of lipedema passed the Senate Commerce Committee.

Lipedema is a serious medical condition that can rob women of their mobility and quality of life, yet insurers too often treat medically necessary care like its optional, said Sen. Steinhardt. No one should have to suffer while bureaucrats deny the care their doctors recommend but too many families are forced to fight their insurance company while also fighting a painful and debilitating disease. This bill is about compassion, fairness, and making sure families can focus on healing instead of battling insurance red tape.

"After undergoing lipedema surgery myself, I experienced firsthand how life-changing this treatment can be," said Nina Schirmer, the key advocate for this legislation. "This bill represents hope for women in New Jersey living with lipedema. No woman should have to fight for access to medically necessary care that can restore mobility, reduce pain, and improve quality of life. I would like to thank Senators Steinhardt and Ruiz for sponsoring this legislation, as passing this bill will help women across New Jersey access the care they need."

Sen. Steinhardt introduced the legislation after hearing Ileana Schirmer, Nina's mother, share her daughters story and the heartbreaking obstacles their family faced trying to access lipedema treatments.