Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington Senate Bill SB5204

Introduced
1/9/23  

Caption

Mandating coverage for fertility services.

Impact

If enacted, SB5204 would significantly alter the landscape of healthcare laws within the state by expanding the range of services that insurers are required to cover. This could potentially lead to an increase in the number of families who can afford fertility treatments, changing the demographic and social fabric of the community as more people gain access to reproductive health services. It may also encourage further discussions around insurance mandates concerning other healthcare areas, thus influencing future legislation in the realm of health and family planning.

Summary

SB5204 aims to mandate coverage for fertility services, which aligns with an increasing trend to expand healthcare benefits related to reproductive health. The intention behind this legislation is to ensure that individuals seeking fertility treatment have the necessary support and financial assistance in accessing such services. By instituting a requirement for insurance companies to cover fertility treatments, the bill addresses the growing need for comprehensive healthcare services that support family planning and reproductive choices.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB5204 appears to be generally positive among advocates for reproductive rights and healthcare accessibility. Supporters argue that mandating insurance coverage for fertility services will uplift those facing infertility challenges, making services more attainable. Conversely, there remains a contingent of opposition, which raises concerns about the implications of government mandates on private insurance and the potential for increased premiums.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB5204 center around the balance between ensuring healthcare access and the concerns related to insurance costs. Critics argue that mandating additional coverage could lead to higher insurance premiums for all policyholders, thereby burdening those who may not seek fertility treatments. Proponents counter that the public health benefits of supporting individuals with fertility issues outweigh the costs, framing the discussion as one of equality and access to essential healthcare services.

Companion Bills

WA HB1151

Crossfiled Mandating coverage for fertility services.

Previously Filed As

WA HB1151

Mandating coverage for fertility services.

WA HB1129

Concerning health plan coverage of fertility-related services.

WA SB5121

Concerning health plan coverage of fertility-related services.

WA LB233

Require coverage for in vitro fertilization for state employees under the Nebraska State Insurance Program

WA LB1082

Require coverage for in vitro fertilization for state employees under the Nebraska State Insurance Program

WA SB5813

Mandating instruction on agricultural literacy for students in grades seven through 12.

WA HB1957

Preserving coverage of preventive services without cost sharing.

WA HB1855

Preserving coverage of preventative services without cost sharing.

WA SB5355

Mandating instruction on sex trafficking prevention and identification for students in grades seven through 12.

WA LB563

Provide for permanent trailer license plates for commercial fertilizer trailers

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.