SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6270
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
As of February 10, 2016
Title: An act relating to prenatal vitamin coverage.
Brief Description: Providing prenatal vitamin coverage.
Sponsors: Senators Becker, Keiser, Dammeier, Cleveland, Bailey, Fain, Parlette, Schoesler, Conway, Warnick, Frockt, Brown, O'Ban, Rolfes, McAuliffe, Mullet and Chase.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Health Care: 1/21/16.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH CARE |
Staff: Mich'l Needham (786-7442)
Background: Research has shown that taking folic acid before getting pregnant and in early pregnancy lowers the risk of having a baby with certain birth defects. The United States Preventive Services Task Force recommends that all women capable of pregnancy take a daily supplement containing 0.4 to 0.8 milligrams of folic acid. Medicaid coverage for preventive and rehabilitative services must include clinical preventive services assigned a grade A or B by the Task Force.
Summary of Bill: All of the Medicaid health programs offered by the Health Care Authority shall provide prenatal vitamins for all women that may become pregnant consistent with the United States Preventive Services Task Force recommendations.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This is an important issue for the hospital association and this policy is consistent with the hospital safe delivery roadmap. Neural tube defects are some of the most common birth defects and research indicates many can be prevented by taking folic acid prior to pregnancy. Since approximately 50 percent of pregnancies are unplanned it is important to take the folic acid prior to pregnancy. We strongly support making this available as broadly as possible.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Ian Corbridge, WSHA.
Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: No one.