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HB 2649

An Act amending the act of May 17, 1921 (P.L.682, No.284), known as The Insurance Company Law of 1921, in casualty insurance, providing for coverage for certain fertility preservation services.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Aerion Abney and 40 co-sponsors

Requires casualty insurers in PA to cover fertility preservation services when medically necessary, expanding access for patients facing fertility-impacting treatments.

Corrective Reprint, Printer's No. 3753
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2649

Overview

HB 2649 (2025-2026 Session, Pennsylvania) amends The Insurance Company Law of 1921 (Act of May 17, 1921, P.L. 682, No. 284) to require coverage for certain fertility preservation services under casualty insurance. The bill adds mandates related to fertility preservation, outlining what services must be covered, by whom, and under what circumstances. A broad group of sponsors, including a large slate of House members from both parties, supports the measure.

Purpose and intent

  • Ensure that individuals who face medical treatments or conditions that could threaten fertility (such as cancer treatments with chemotherapy or radiation, or other medical interventions) have access to coverage for fertility preservation.
  • Align Pennsylvania insurance practice with increasing national emphasis on preserving fertility as part of comprehensive medical care.
  • Reduce financial barriers to fertility preservation services for patients who rely on casualty (property/casualty) insurers for medical-related coverage, where such coverage is typically provided indirectly through health-related policy interpretations or rider options.

Key provisions and changes

  • Coverage Requirement: The bill requires casualty insurers to provide coverage for specific fertility preservation services. While the exact list of covered services is not detailed in the summary, typical inclusions in similar bills often cover:
    • Oocyte and semen collection and storage procedures
    • Embryo storage
    • Cryopreservation of gametes or reproductive tissue
    • Related medical consultations and laboratory procedures necessary for preservation
  • Eligibility Criteria: Coverage is generally conditioned on medical necessity, such as preservation prior to gonadotoxic cancer therapy or other treatments known to impact fertility. The bill may specify that services be covered when prescribed or recommended by a treating physician.
  • Duration and Access: Provisions may specify maximum storage durations, limits on annual or lifetime coverage amounts, and any exceptions for non-medical reasons.
  • Coordination with Other Coverage: The measure would define how the new requirements interact with existing health or medical coverage, potential copays, deductibles, and out-of-pocket limits.
  • Definitions: The bill is likely to include definitions for terms such as fertility preservation, eligible treatments, and storage services to avoid ambiguity in implementation.

Who would be affected

  • Casualty insurers operating in Pennsylvania would be required to offer coverage for the defined fertility preservation services.
  • Consumers undergoing medical treatments with fertility-altering effects who would seek coverage under their casualty insurer.
  • Healthcare providers and fertility clinics may see increased patient demand and need to coordinate with insurers to document medical necessity and treatment plans.
  • Employers and policyholders with casualty coverage that includes or overlaps with medical benefits could see changes in premium calculations or plan designs where these services are mandated.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Legislative Process: The bill has listed sponsors and co-sponsors, indicating active introduction and committee consideration within the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.
  • Implementation: If enacted, the bill would specify an effective date for the coverage requirements and any transitional provisions for insurers to adapt their policies and claims processing.
  • Regulatory Alignment: The Pennsylvania Department of Insurance would likely issue guidance or regulations to implement and enforce the new coverage standards, including complaint processes for policyholders.

Potential impacts

  • Access and Equity: Increased access to fertility preservation services for patients facing treatment that could impact fertility, reducing out-of-pocket and administrative barriers.
  • Premium and Cost Considerations: Insurers may adjust premiums or benefit designs to accommodate the new coverage requirements; cost-sharing parameters would be defined in the bill or by implementing regulations.
  • Administrative Burden: Insurers and providers may incur additional administrative tasks to document medical necessity, coding, and claims for fertility preservation services.

Note

  • The summary reflects typical elements of legislation mandating coverage for fertility preservation as implemented in various jurisdictions. The exact enumerated services, limits, and definitions would be found in the bill text and any resulting committee amendments. For precise details, refer to the full statutory amendments and the fiscal/implementation notes accompanying HB 2649.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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