Bill > S0480

This bill mandates comprehensive health insurance coverage for contraceptive methods, requiring all health insurance plans in the state to provide coverage for FDA-approved contraceptive drugs, devices, and products without cost-sharing. Specifically, the bill requires insurers to cover FDA-approved contraceptives, emergency contraception, prescription contraceptives for up to 12 months, voluntary female sterilization procedures, patient education and counseling on contraception, and follow-up services. The bill includes important nuances, such as allowing insurers to offer multiple contraceptive options within a method category while ensuring at least one option is available without cost-sharing, and requiring coverage of a specific contraceptive recommended by a provider for medical reasons. The legislation defines key terms like "therapeutic equivalent" and ensures that coverage applies to an enrollee's spouse and dependents. Notably, the bill allows contraceptive coverage for non-contraceptive medical purposes, such as managing menopause symptoms or reducing cancer risks. The new requirements will apply to all health insurance contracts in the state, except those providing supplemental coverage to Medicare or other government programs, and will take effect on January 1, 2026.

Health and Social Services

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