S 1698 United States Senate · 118th Congress

Affordability is Access Act of 2023

The Affordability is Access Act of 2023 requires health insurance plans to cover over-the-counter contraceptives approved by the FDA without cost-sharing (such as copays or deductibles). It directly affects millions of people, especially those who rely on birth control but face cost barriers, including low-income individuals and people in contraceptive deserts. The bill clarifies that insurance coverage must include FDA-approved OTC contraceptives even without a prescription, and it mandates retailers to provide accurate information about these products without interfering with access. Retailers may refuse to sell the product if payment cannot be made, but they cannot block access or spread misinformation.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
May 2023
Committee Review
Floor Vote
President
Introduced May 18, 2023 Last action May 18, 2023