Bill > AB224

This bill aims to review and update California's essential health benefits benchmark plan for health insurers, with specific changes to take effect in 2027. The bill expresses legislative intent to establish a new benchmark plan for the 2027 plan year, contingent upon approval from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. If approved, the new benchmark plan would include additional benefits such as comprehensive fertility services (including artificial insemination, multiple attempts at gamete and embryo creation, cryopreservation, surrogacy coverage, and donor genetic material) and expanded durable medical equipment coverage (including mobility devices, communication aids, continuous positive airway pressure machines, portable oxygen, hospital beds, and hearing-related services). The proposed changes would apply to individual and small group health insurance policies, expanding the range of essential health benefits that insurers must cover. This legislation builds upon existing requirements from the Affordable Care Act and aims to provide more comprehensive healthcare coverage for Californians by addressing specific medical needs related to fertility treatments and medical equipment.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB224