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Bill

SB 319

AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 18, TITLE 29, AND TITLE 31 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO COVERAGE FOR DIAGNOSTIC SERVICES AND TREATMENT FOR MENOPAUSE, PERIMENOPAUSE, AND MENOPAUSE AND PERIMENOPAUSE SYMPTOMS.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Darius Brown and 22 co-sponsors

Delaware SB 319 would require coverage for diagnostic services and treatments related to menopause and perimenopause across insured plans.

Passed By House. Votes: 36 YES 1 NO 4 ABSENT
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Bill Summary · SB 319

Overview

SB 319, introduced in the Delaware Senate during the 153rd Session, seeks to amend Title 18, Title 29, and Title 31 of the Delaware Code to address coverage for diagnostic services and treatment related to menopause, perimenopause, and symptoms arising from menopause and perimenopause. The bill was assigned to the Health & Social Services Committee and has a broad array of co-sponsors.

Purpose and intent

  • To require or authorize coverage for diagnostic services and treatment related to menopause and perimenopause.
  • To ensure inclusion of menopause-related conditions within the state’s health insurance and benefits framework, potentially aligning coverage with other chronic and women's health-related conditions.
  • To clarify the scope of services and treatments that insurers or state programs must cover, aiming to reduce barriers to diagnosis and treatment for individuals experiencing menopausal-related health issues.

Key provisions and changes (anticipated through the bill’s subject matter)

While the full legislative text is not provided here, the bill’s title and subject matter indicate several likely provisions:

  • Amendments to Title 18 (likely insurance or regulated activities) to specify mandated coverage for diagnostic testing and medical treatments related to menopause and perimenopause.
  • Amendments to Title 29 (health planning, public health, or related regulation) to incorporate menopause-related services into publicly mandated health coverage or to define standards for coverage adequacy.
  • Amendments to Title 31 (medical practice or professional regulation) to address provider obligations, approved therapies, or patient access related to menopause care.
  • Definitions clarifying terms such as “menopause,” “perimenopause,” “diagnostic services,” and “treatment” to ensure consistent application.
  • Possible non-discrimination or parity requirements ensuring menopause-related care is treated similarly to other chronic condition management in terms of coverage and cost-sharing.
  • Implementation timing, enforcement mechanisms, and potential waivers or exemptions for certain plans or programs.

Who is affected

  • Individuals experiencing menopause or perimenopause seeking diagnosis and treatment.
  • Insurers and health benefit plans operating in Delaware, including private plans, group plans, and possibly state or public programs.
  • Healthcare providers offering services related to menopause care, diagnostics, and treatment.
  • Employers and plan sponsors who provide or administer insured health benefits, depending on the final scope of coverage requirements.
  • State health agencies or departments responsible for regulatory oversight and program administration under Titles 18, 29, and 31.

Procedural and timeline considerations

  • The bill was introduced and assigned to the Health & Social Services Committee (Senate) on 2026-05-13.
  • As a Senate bill, it may proceed through committee hearings, potential amendments, and floor votes before moving to the House (if applicable in Delaware’s process) and ultimately to the governor for signature.
  • Specific effective dates for coverage changes, transition periods for insurers, and any phased implementation would be defined in the enacted text or committee substitute.

Potential impact

  • Improved access to diagnostic services and treatments for menopause-related conditions.
  • Increased clarity for insurers and employers regarding coverage requirements, potentially reducing out-of-pocket costs for patients.
  • Encouragement for timely diagnosis and management of menopausal symptoms, which can affect quality of life, mental health, and physical health outcomes.
  • Possible alignment with broader efforts to address women’s health disparities and ensure parity in coverage across chronic and hormonal health conditions.

Notes for readers

  • The exact language, definitions, and scope will determine the precise impact, including any exemptions, cost-sharing limits, or transition timelines.
  • If you are a patient, clinician, or insurer, watch for committee hearings or amendments that detail coverage specifics, required diagnostics, approved treatments, and any payer-provider responsibilities.

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

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