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Bill

HB 1182

Health insurance; coverage for contraceptive drugs & devices, including over-the-counter.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bonita Anthony and 44 co-sponsors

Virginia mandates health insurers cover all contraceptive drugs and devices without patient cost-sharing, standardizing access across state-regulated plans.

Governor's recommendation received by House
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1182

Legislative bill overview

HB 1182 mandates that health insurance plans in Virginia provide coverage for contraceptive drugs and devices without cost-sharing (copayments, coinsurance, or deductibles). The bill aligns Virginia state law with existing federal requirements under the Affordable Care Act, ensuring comprehensive contraceptive access across all insurance categories.

Why is this important

Contraceptive coverage requirements affect healthcare costs and access for approximately 5.3 million Virginians with health insurance. The bill addresses potential gaps in coverage if federal protections are weakened or modified, while also standardizing requirements across all state-regulated insurance plans. This directly impacts family planning decisions and reproductive healthcare affordability.

Potential points of contention

  • Religious exemptions: The bill's language on exemptions for religious employers and organizations may conflict with religious liberty concerns, particularly regarding employers with moral objections to contraception
  • Insurance cost implications: Insurers may argue that mandated preventive coverage without cost-sharing increases premiums, though federal data suggests minimal cost increases from contraceptive coverage requirements
  • Scope of covered methods: Disagreement may arise over which contraceptive drugs and devices must be covered, including newer or more expensive methods, and whether all FDA-approved options are included

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

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