FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – April 27, 2023
OLYMPIA – Sen. Annette Cleveland’s (D-Vancouver) legislation ensuring access to abortion by eliminating out-of-pocket costs for patients was signed into law by Gov. Jay Inslee on Thursday.
Washington law requires abortions to be covered by all state-regulated health plans that cover maternity services, but too often, patients do not know co-insurance and cost-sharing may be required for their care.
These unexpected costs are burdensome, often unattainable and can leave patients feeling helpless.
Under Senate Bill 5242, health insurers cannot require anyone seeking an abortion to pay a copayment or meet a deductible to have their services covered.
“Unexpected costs are rooted in inequity; they worsen racial and socioeconomic disparities,” Cleveland said. “While other states are restricting access to reproductive care, we here in Washington are working to protect it. This legislation affirms our commitment to ensuring everyone has access to the reproductive health care they need, regardless of their situation or ability to pay.”
“We applaud Sen. Cleveland and Rep. Bateman’s work to pass this piece of legislation that will have an immediate impact of the lives of Washingtonians across the state,” said Courtney Normand, Washington State Director of Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates. “No one’s pregnancy decisions and health care access should be determined by their ability to pay for care, and with the passage of this bill, patients can access abortion care without worrying about unexpected costs passed along by insurance companies. While other states are determined to make it harder for people to access care, our lawmakers are sending a clear message that they will fight for equitable abortion access here in Washington.”
SB 5454 goes into effect on January 1, 2024.
