Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington House Bill HB1957

Introduced
1/8/24  
Refer
1/8/24  
Report Pass
1/12/24  
Refer
1/16/24  
Engrossed
2/8/24  
Refer
2/12/24  
Report Pass
2/20/24  
Enrolled
3/6/24  
Chaptered
3/28/24  

Caption

Preserving coverage of preventive services without cost sharing.

Impact

The implications of HB 1957 are significant for state laws surrounding healthcare access and insurance coverage. By mandating coverage for preventive services at no additional cost, the bill potentially increases the number of individuals receiving such services, thereby improving overall community health. Moreover, it could lead to long-term cost savings for both the state and individuals, as preventive care can reduce the need for more expensive treatments down the line. However, this shift in policy may also raise concerns about the financial implications for insurance providers and the state insurance marketplace.

Summary

House Bill 1957 is designed to preserve coverage for preventive services without imposing any cost-sharing requirements on patients. This means that individuals accessing preventive services will be able to do so without having to pay out-of-pocket expenses, which aims to increase the utilization of important health services aimed at improving public health outcomes. The bill reflects an ongoing legislative effort to enhance access to essential healthcare services and ensure preventative care is prioritized within health insurance policies.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1957 appears overwhelmingly positive, particularly among healthcare advocates and those who prioritize preventive care in public policy. Supporters highlight the importance of removing financial barriers to essential services, viewing the bill as a necessary step toward promoting healthier communities. However, there may be critical voices from the insurance industry or fiscal conservatives concerned about the potential costs and the sustainability of such mandates, indicating a mixture of supportive and cautious interpretations of the bill's effects.

Contention

Notable contention around HB 1957 may revolve around the financial impact on insurance providers and the healthcare system as a whole. Stakeholders in the insurance industry may express concerns regarding the sustainability of operating under mandates that do not allow for cost-sharing on preventive services. Furthermore, there may be discussions regarding which specific services are classified as preventive and covered under this legislation, as well as debates about the potential for increased insurance premiums as a result of this regulatory change.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WA HB1855

Preserving coverage of preventative services without cost sharing.

WA HB1072

Preserving access to protected health care services.

WA HB1291

Concerning cost sharing for maternity services.

WA HB1531

Preserving the ability of public officials to address communicable diseases.

WA HB1151

Mandating coverage for fertility services.

WA SB5628

Preserving water rights for farmland and economic development.

WA SB5483

Preserving history and heritage education.

WA LB153

Require the Department of Health and Human Services to file a state plan amendment for postpartum coverage

WA HB1129

Concerning health plan coverage of fertility-related services.

WA HB1222

Requiring coverage for hearing instruments.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.