Cleveland bill to prohibit cost-sharing for abortion passes Senate

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Feb. 28, 2023

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OLYMPIA – Sen. Annette Cleveland’s legislation to prohibit cost-sharing for patients seeking abortion care passed the Senate on a 29-19 vote today.  

In Washington, abortions must be covered by all state-regulated health plans that cover maternity services. However, out-of-pocket costs can often be a burden for patients.  

Senate Bill 5242 aims to eliminate the burden of those costs, which often worsen racial and socioeconomic disparities. Under this legislation, no one seeking an abortion would be required to pay a copayment or meet a deductible to have their services covered.  

“This bill is about ensuring equity and fairness for everyone receiving critical reproductive healthcare,” said Sen. Annette Cleveland (D-Vancouver). “Nobody should be unable to access the care they need because of their inability to pay.”  

This bill now heads to the House for consideration.