Louisiana is taking an important step to expand access to obesity care. On June 9, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry signed Senate Bill 433 into law. Beginning in January 2027, the law will allow Louisiana Medicaid to provide coverage for FDA-approved obesity medications for eligible beneficiaries.

This is meaningful progress for people living with obesity, a chronic disease that requires access to comprehensive, science-based care. For many individuals, cost and coverage barriers can stand in the way of treatment options that may be medically appropriate for them.

OAC Community Members Nanette Wilson, left, and Jennifer McCoy, right.

OAC Community Member and Louisiana resident Jennifer McCoy understands how access to care can change a person’s life. For years, she sought medical support but was told her health would improve if she “just lost weight,” without being given meaningful treatment options or tools. She was eventually able to receive obesity treatment only because a family member paid for it out of pocket.

“That access to care changed the entire trajectory of my life,” Jennifer shared. “No one’s ability to receive treatment should depend on whether they have a family member who can step in financially.”

Jennifer’s experience reflects why Louisiana’s action matters. By submitting her story as written testimony during the legislative process, she helped lawmakers hear directly from a constituent impacted by the policies they shape, one of the most effective elements of advocacy. Providing Medicaid coverage for FDA-approved obesity medications, the state is recognizing that obesity care should be part of the healthcare conversation. Treatment decisions should be made between patients and their healthcare providers, with coverage policies that support access to medically appropriate options.

This law also sends an important message to other states. When policymakers explore all available options and listen to the needs of people living with obesity, they can take meaningful steps to improve access to care and support better health outcomes.

The Obesity Action Coalition applauds Louisiana leaders, advocates and community members who helped move this legislation forward. Progress like this happens when obesity is recognized as a chronic disease and when access to care is treated as a health priority.

While there is still work ahead, this law marks an important step in the right direction. OAC will continue to support efforts that expand access to comprehensive obesity care and ensure that people living with obesity have the tools, treatment options and support they need.

Louisiana’s progress is a reminder that advocacy matters, policy matters and every step toward better access can help create a more equitable future for obesity care. Donate to the OAC Action Fund to help advance this work in Louisiana and across the country.