New Jersey Assembly Bill A5590

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/5/25
• Refer: 5/5/25

Caption

Adds storage of sperm and oocytes for certain persons to current health insurance coverage regarding iatrogenic fertility.

Impact

If enacted, A5590 will impact several state laws governing health insurance policies, including those provided by hospital service corporations, medical service corporations, and health maintenance organizations. By mandating that these insurance plans cover standard fertility preservation services, the bill strives to ensure that individuals do not face financial burden when opting for preservation procedures that could safeguard their reproductive health. The implications of this bill will primarily resonate with patients undergoing treatments with known risks of infertility, allowing for better health outcomes and planning for family formation in the future.

Summary

Assembly Bill A5590 aims to expand health insurance coverage for fertility preservation services in the context of iatrogenic infertility. Specifically, the bill adds provisions to require health insurance plans to cover the storage of sperm and oocytes for individuals up to the age of 21 when medically necessary treatment may cause impairment of fertility. This amendment follows concerns that certain medical treatments, including cancer therapies, could lead to infertility, thereby necessitating access to preservation services. The bill is positioned within the framework of protection and support for young adults facing potential infertility due to medical interventions.

Contention

While the bill is largely supported based on its potential for positive health outcomes, concerns may arise regarding cost implications for insurers and the parameters of 'medically necessary' treatment. Stakeholders could debate the sufficiency of the coverage under this mandate and the age limit set for storage provisions. Critics may also question the extent to which insurers can determine necessity based on personal health attributes. Nevertheless, A5590 represents a progressive step towards making reproductive health resources more accessible in New Jersey.