The American Diabetes Association® (ADA) applauds Governor Jeff Landry and the Louisiana legislature for their bipartisan support of Senate Bill 433 (SB 433), landmark legislation expanding Medicaid coverage of obesity medications.
Obesity is a chronic, complex disease affecting the health and well-being of Louisianans; it increases the risk of serious complications including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and kidney disease. Access to evidence-based treatment remains one of the most significant challenges facing individuals managing chronic conditions.
“The ADA is grateful to Governor Landry, key author Senator Gerald Boudreaux, members of the Louisiana legislature, healthcare professionals, advocates, and community leaders who recognized the importance of expanding access to medically appropriate treatment,” said Douglas Dunsavage, director of state government affairs. “This legislation represents an important step toward improving health outcomes and removing roadblocks to care for some of the state’s most vulnerable residents.”
SB 433 expands coverage of obesity treatments through Louisiana Medicaid, providing individuals with greater access to therapies to help manage obesity and reduce the risk of associated chronic diseases. The bill reflects growing recognition among lawmakers and healthcare professionals that obesity requires comprehensive, evidence-based care.
Approximately 39% of the Louisiana adult population are living with obesity. With the passage of SB 433, Louisiana joins a growing number of states taking action to improve access to evidence-based obesity care and address the long-term impact of this chronic disease.
The ADA remains committed to working alongside state leaders, healthcare providers, advocates, and community partners to ensure all Louisianans have access to the care and treatment they need to thrive.
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About the American Diabetes Association
The American Diabetes Association (ADA) is the nation’s leading voluntary health organization fighting to end diabetes and helping people thrive. This year, the ADA celebrates 85 years of driving discovery and research to prevent, manage, treat, and ultimately cure diabetes—and we’re not stopping. There are over 155 million Americans living with diabetes or prediabetes. Through advocacy, program development, and education, we’re fighting for them all. To learn more or to get involved, visit us at or call 1-800-DIABETES (800-342-2383). Join us in the fight on Facebook (American Diabetes Association), Spanish Facebook (Asociación Americana de la Diabetes), LinkedIn (American Diabetes Association), and Instagram (@AmDiabetesAssn). To learn more about how we are advocating for everyone affected by diabetes, visit us on X (@AmDiabetesAssn).
