WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

H 4551

An Act improving access to infertility treatment

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Rodney Elliott and 6 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill expands insurance coverage requirements for infertility treatments to increase patient access while raising premiums and creating potential disputes over scope and moral objections.

Reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Health Care Financing
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · H 4551

Legislative bill overview

H 4551 seeks to expand access to infertility treatment in Massachusetts by improving insurance coverage and potentially reducing out-of-pocket costs for fertility services. The bill appears to address gaps in current insurance mandates for infertility care, which currently vary widely across plans and coverage types.

Why is this important

Infertility affects approximately 1 in 8 couples, and fertility treatments like IVF can cost $15,000-$30,000 per cycle without insurance coverage. Expanding access through insurance mandates can reduce financial barriers that prevent many families from pursuing treatment, though it also affects insurance premiums and healthcare costs broadly.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance cost implications: Mandating fertility coverage will increase insurance premiums for all enrollees, including those who will never use these services, raising equity questions about cost-shifting
  • Definition and scope disputes: Disagreement over which treatments should be covered (IVF, egg freezing, donor services), at what age, and how many cycles—broader mandates cost more
  • Religious and moral objections: Some employers and individuals oppose fertility treatment coverage on religious grounds, creating potential conflicts with conscience protections

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

Sign in to ask a question.