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Sen. Hassan sponsors bill for over-the-counter hearing aids

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On March 21, New Hampshire's U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan introduced federal legislation to make hearing aids available over the counter.

The FDA would regulate the hearing aids for safety.

"Even when hearing aids are covered by insurance as they are in New Hampshire, seniors can still be stuck with bills totaling thousands of dollars. Allowing certain hearing aids to be sold over the counter, just like reading glasses are, is a common-sense step that can bring real cost savings to older Americans," said Hassan. 

According to the press release on her website, over half of adults in their seventies suffer from hearing loss, but only 14% have hearing aids. 

Bill opponents argue that hearing loss can be a symptom of an underlying condition, so consumers should consult a physician before using a hearing aid. 

Cheap over-the-counter hearing aids are also more likely to amplify the volume of all sounds indiscriminately, which can cause further damage and hearing loss.

Do you support allowing hearing aids to be purchased over the counter? Leave a comment below to join the discussion, and we'll present your thoughts to legislators considering this issue. Only comments from NH residents will be counted, so please indicate if you are from NH in your response.

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