Assembly member Flanagan advocates for fertility preservation coverage in Nevada health plans
May 22, 2025 | 2025 Legislature NV, Nevada
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In a recent meeting of the Assembly Committee on Ways and Means, discussions centered around two significant pieces of legislation: Assembly Bill 344 and Assembly Bill 428. The meeting, held on May 22, 2025, in Carson City and Las Vegas, provided a platform for lawmakers to address pressing health care issues affecting Nevadans.
Assembly Bill 344, which was presented for public testimony, did not receive any support or opposition from attendees or callers. This lack of engagement raises questions about the bill's relevance or the public's awareness of its implications. The committee chair noted the absence of testimony, indicating a potential disconnect between legislative initiatives and community interest.
In contrast, Assembly Bill 428 garnered attention as it aims to require certain health plans to cover fertility preservation services, particularly for cancer patients. Assembly member Tanya Flanagan, representing Assembly District 7, emphasized the financial burden faced by individuals seeking these services, which can range from $10,000 to $15,000 for embryo preservation alone. The bill seeks to ensure that both public and private health plans, including Medicaid, provide coverage for medically necessary procedures that help preserve fertility for those diagnosed with cancers that may lead to infertility.
Flanagan highlighted that 18 states and the District of Columbia have already enacted similar legislation, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of fertility preservation in cancer treatment. The bill also includes provisions for insurers affiliated with religious organizations to opt out of providing coverage on religious grounds, provided they notify potential policyholders.
The committee's discussions on these bills underscore the ongoing challenges in health care access and the need for legislative action to address the specific needs of vulnerable populations, such as cancer patients. As the committee moves forward, the lack of public testimony on Assembly Bill 344 may prompt further outreach efforts to engage the community and ensure that legislative efforts align with public needs.
Overall, the meeting highlighted critical health care issues that could significantly impact the lives of Nevadans, particularly those facing serious health challenges. The next steps for both bills will be closely monitored as they progress through the legislative process.
Assembly Bill 344, which was presented for public testimony, did not receive any support or opposition from attendees or callers. This lack of engagement raises questions about the bill's relevance or the public's awareness of its implications. The committee chair noted the absence of testimony, indicating a potential disconnect between legislative initiatives and community interest.
In contrast, Assembly Bill 428 garnered attention as it aims to require certain health plans to cover fertility preservation services, particularly for cancer patients. Assembly member Tanya Flanagan, representing Assembly District 7, emphasized the financial burden faced by individuals seeking these services, which can range from $10,000 to $15,000 for embryo preservation alone. The bill seeks to ensure that both public and private health plans, including Medicaid, provide coverage for medically necessary procedures that help preserve fertility for those diagnosed with cancers that may lead to infertility.
Flanagan highlighted that 18 states and the District of Columbia have already enacted similar legislation, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of fertility preservation in cancer treatment. The bill also includes provisions for insurers affiliated with religious organizations to opt out of providing coverage on religious grounds, provided they notify potential policyholders.
The committee's discussions on these bills underscore the ongoing challenges in health care access and the need for legislative action to address the specific needs of vulnerable populations, such as cancer patients. As the committee moves forward, the lack of public testimony on Assembly Bill 344 may prompt further outreach efforts to engage the community and ensure that legislative efforts align with public needs.
Overall, the meeting highlighted critical health care issues that could significantly impact the lives of Nevadans, particularly those facing serious health challenges. The next steps for both bills will be closely monitored as they progress through the legislative process.
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