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Bill

Bill

SB 5075

Concerning cost sharing for prenatal and postnatal care.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jess Bateman and 13 co-sponsors

SB 5075 eliminates cost-sharing for prenatal and postnatal care in Washington, increasing access but shifting financial burden to insurers and potentially affecting premium costs statewide.

Public hearing in the Senate Committee on Ways & Means at 4:00 PM.
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Bill Summary · SB 5075

Legislative bill overview

SB 5075 eliminates or reduces cost-sharing requirements (copays, coinsurance, deductibles) for prenatal and postnatal care services in Washington state. The bill has passed initial committee review with a substitute version and is now being evaluated for fiscal impact by the Ways & Means committee.

Why is this important

Removing financial barriers to prenatal and postnatal care can increase access to preventive health services during critical periods, potentially improving maternal and infant health outcomes. However, the fiscal implications are substantial—eliminating cost-sharing reduces insurance premium revenues and shifts costs to insurers, employers, and state programs, which may affect healthcare system financing.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost burden: Unclear who bears the financial cost—whether insurers absorb losses, premiums increase for all enrollees, or state subsidies are required
  • Scope definition: The bill's specific definition of "prenatal and postnatal care" may be debated (what services qualify, how long postpartum coverage extends)
  • Insurance market effects: May create incentives or disincentives for coverage decisions and could disproportionately impact small employers or individual market premiums

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

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