Calif. Bill Would Guarantee No-Cost Contraception for Men, Women
California lawmakers are considering a bill (SB 1053) that would ensure access to no-cost contraception services for both men and women in the state, the Sacramento Business Journal reports.
The bill, by state Sen. Holly Mitchell (D-Los Angeles), was approved last week by the state Senate Health Committee. It now is awaiting consideration by the Senate Appropriations Committee.
The measure builds on the Affordable Care Act, which requires insurers to cover FDA-approved contraception without co-payments. In addition to ensuring no-cost contraception for women, the bill would require no-cost coverage for vasectomies and other male contraceptive services.
In a release, Mitchell said that federal rules call for "reasonable medical management techniques" but lack clarity, resulting in inconsistent implementation.
The California Family Health Council and the National Health Law Program are co-sponsoring the measure.
Opposition to Bill
The bill is opposed by the:
- California Association of Health Plans;
- California Catholic Conference; and
- California Chamber of Commerce.
CAHP argued that the measure could increase premiums and conflict with federal law. Meanwhile, the state Chamber of Commerce said the bill would impose an additional burden on employers (Robertson, Sacramento Business Journal, 5/6).
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