ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10)—Governor Kathy Hochul recently signed legislation that would require health insurance companies to cover the cost of scalp cooling systems for those fighting cancer.

Around six years ago, Maureen Green was diagnosed with the disease. She recalled a conversation she had with her doctor, who said she’d lose her hair after the first chemo treatment.

“Obviously getting a cancer diagnosis is really terrifying and upsetting, but that’s when I just started to cry and then I started to feel really bad that I was crying about my hair,” explained Green. “But I’ve come to realize it’s not just about hair, it’s maintaining your dignity and privacy when going through a really difficult time.”

Green decided to use a scalp cooling system which helped her keep her hair.

Governor Kathy Hochul recently signed a new law, requiring large private health insurance plans to cover the cost of the cooling cap, that restricts blood vessels in the scalp, limiting the amount of chemo that reaches the hair follicle. 

“A cancer diagnosis is a financial burden on its own and then if you want to do the scalp cooling, it can cost over $2,000,” explained Green. “So having it mandated by insurance companies would be really helpful for people that want to do it, but can’t afford it.”

Assemblymember Linda Rosenthal sponsored the legislation. 

“It’s mental health connected to physical health strategy,” said Rosenthal. “To persevere and handle the treatments without feeling stripped of your dignity and your essence.”

The bill will go into effect January 1st, 2026.