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SF 3706

Prior authorization of drugs the enrollee has been prescribed prohibition for at least six months

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Liz Boldon and 2 co-sponsors

Prohibits insurers from requiring prior authorization for medications prescribed continuously for 6+ months, streamlining access to stable chronic disease treatments.

Author added Boldon
#drugsandmedicine #healthandhealthdepartment #insurance-health
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Bill Summary · SF 3706

Legislative bill overview

SF 3706 prohibits health insurance companies from requiring prior authorization for medications that an enrollee has been continuously prescribed for at least six months. Prior authorization is a process where insurers review and approve medications before covering them. This bill would streamline coverage for patients on stable, long-term medication regimens by removing the authorization barrier after an initial six-month period.

Why is this important

Patients on chronic medications (for conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or mental health) currently face repeated prior authorization requirements even when on stable treatments, causing treatment delays and administrative burden. This bill could reduce barriers to medication access and decrease time spent by healthcare providers on authorization paperwork. However, it could also limit insurers' ability to monitor for medication interactions, changing dosages, or newer alternatives that might be more cost-effective.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance company oversight: Removing prior authorization eliminates insurers' ability to verify that long-term prescriptions remain medically appropriate or to identify safer/cheaper alternatives as they become available
  • Cost implications: Continuously covering medications without periodic review could increase insurance costs, potentially raising premiums or reducing coverage for other services
  • Scope and safety: The bill doesn't specify exceptions for controlled substances, high-risk drug combinations, or dosage changes that might warrant continued review

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

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