On July 2, New Hampshire became the latest state to advance the So Every BODY Can Move (SEBCM) movement when Governor Kelly Ayotte signed Senate Bill 408 into law, expanding access to activity-specific prosthetic devices for adults living with limb loss and limb difference. The legislation marks another milestone for the national advocacy initiative, which is working to ensure that people with limb loss have insurance coverage for the prosthetic devices they need to live active, healthy lives.
For many amputees, an everyday prosthesis is designed to support routine activities like walking, working, and navigating daily life. But running, cycling, swimming, hiking, or returning to adaptive sports often requires a prosthesis designed specifically for those activities. Too often, those activity-specific devices have been excluded from insurance coverage, leaving individuals to either pay out of pocket or forgo the activities that contribute to their physical and mental well-being.
New Hampshire’s new law builds on legislation passed in 2024 that extended similar coverage to children. Beginning in 2028, qualifying commercial insurance plans in the state will also be required to cover activity-specific prosthetic devices for adults, benefiting nearly 9,000 people in the state living with limb loss or limb difference.
“This effort expands access to prosthetic devices and addresses a significant gap in health coverage,” said Sen. William Gannon, the bill’s primary sponsor. “Not only does this help more residents get the care they need to maintain their quality of life, but it also represents independence and dignity.”
Advocates say the legislation reflects a growing understanding that movement is more than recreation—it’s an important part of long-term health. Maggie Baumer, SEBCM national legislative affairs lead and leader of Enterprise Patient Advocacy at Hanger Clinic, called access to appropriate prosthetic care “a necessity and a fundamental right.”
“By removing barriers to care, we are helping more people have access to the devices they need to live independently, stay active, reach their full potential, and thrive,” Baumer said.
New Hampshire is the latest victory in SEBCM’s nationwide campaign to expand equitable access to prosthetic and orthotic care. The coalition’s goal is to help pass similar legislation in 28 states before the 2028 Paralympic Games, with the long-term vision of achieving nationwide—and ultimately federal—coverage for activity-specific prosthetic and orthotic devices.
For the limb-loss community, each new state that adopts SEBCM legislation represents more than another policy win. It reflects a growing recognition that prosthetic care isn’t just about restoring basic mobility—it’s about giving people the opportunity to fully participate in work, recreation, family life, and the activities that bring purpose and joy.
