Stanley and Provenzano Applaud Veto Override of Critical Breast Cancer Screening Legislation

OKLAHOMA CITY— Senator Brenda Stanley, R-Midwest City, and Representative Melissa Provenzano, D-Tulsa, commended the Legislature’s action to override the governor’s veto of House Bill 1389.

The measure requires health benefit plans to include coverage for contrast-enhanced mammograms and molecular breast imaging as part of diagnostic and supplemental examinations for breast cancer. 

“I’m incredibly thankful to my legislative colleagues for their action today that will ensure that Oklahomans are provided coverage for life-saving breast cancer screenings,” Stanley said. “By providing greater access to contrast-enhanced mammograms and molecular breast imaging, we’re promoting better health outcomes and reducing healthcare costs by prioritizing early detection and preventative care. I’m proud of our continued efforts on this policy that will ensure every Oklahoman has access to affordable, comprehensive, and most importantly, lifesaving, advanced diagnostic tests. I extend my sincerest appreciation to the House author of the bill, Rep. Melissa Provenzano, and everyone who has fought on behalf of the thousands of Oklahomans at risk of breast cancer.”

Rep. Melissa Provenzano is the principal House author of the bill.

“This legislation will save lives,” said Provenzano. “Early detection is the key.  I am so glad to receive such overwhelming bipartisan support for it. In 2022, we passed legislation to cover diagnostic mammograms, but since then, we know not every Oklahoma woman has access to the same machines and tests. HB 1389 clarifies that law so that every Oklahoman can get the care they need covered by their insurance, regardless of their zip code. I am so glad to join other states in creating this law and work toward making Oklahoma a nationwide leader in breast cancer care.”

The provisions of House Bill 1389 will officially take effect November 1.

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