Bill > S715

This bill enhances fertility and reproductive healthcare coverage for LGBTQ individuals and families in Massachusetts by mandating comprehensive insurance coverage and support services. It requires group insurance, health maintenance organizations, and medical assistance programs to provide coverage for fertility diagnostic care and fertility treatments without discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or familial status. The bill defines infertility broadly, including medical interventions needed to achieve pregnancy, and mandates coverage for multiple oocyte retrievals, embryo transfers, and insemination cycles. Additionally, the legislation requires the development of a professional training module for healthcare providers to improve competency and cultural sensitivity when working with LGBTQ individuals seeking to build families. The bill also directs the office of health equity to conduct a comprehensive study on the accessibility and affordability of reproductive services for LGBTQ individuals, with a focus on identifying and eliminating barriers to family building. Most provisions of the bill will take effect one year after enactment, and the training curriculum for healthcare providers must be completed within nine months of the bill becoming law.

Business and Industry, Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S715