Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

Michigan Senate Bill SB0717

Introduced
12/2/25  

Caption

Human services: medical services; coverage for treatment of menopause and perimenopause symptoms and waiver of prior authorization for prescription drugs or treatments for menopause and perimenopause symptoms; require. Amends sec. 109h of 1939 PA 280 (MCL 400.109h) & adds sec. 109t.

Impact

The passage of SB 717 would bring substantial changes to the way prescription drugs for menopause and perimenopause are managed under the state medical assistance program. By eliminating prior authorization requirements for specific medications, the bill is expected to improve access to treatments, reducing delays which can adversely affect patient health outcomes. This change would directly influence how healthcare providers prescribe medications and how patients access necessary care. Furthermore, the bill underscores a commitment to ensure that women’s health issues receive appropriate attention and support within the healthcare system.

Summary

Senate Bill 717 aims to amend the Social Welfare Act by specifically addressing the prescription drug coverage for menopause and perimenopause symptoms. The bill proposes that the department responsible for medical assistance programs will not require prior authorization for certain prescription drugs, including those related to the treatment of menopause and perimenopause symptoms. This amendment reflects an effort to simplify access to necessary medications for women experiencing these natural life stages by reducing bureaucratic hurdles. Notably, the bill emphasizes the importance of providing medically necessary care and treatments which are recognized by health authorities, thereby aligning prescription practices with accepted medical standards.

Contention

While the bill aims to streamline access to treatment for menopause and perimenopause symptoms, it may face scrutiny from various stakeholders regarding the implications of removing prior authorization. Critics may express concerns about the potential for increased insurance costs or misuse of medications without the oversight typically provided by prior authorization protocols. Supporters of the bill argue that the benefits of ensuring timely access to care outweigh these concerns, especially considering the prevalence of menopause-related conditions among women. Thus, illuminating a discussion about balancing regulatory oversight with patient care needs remains a central point of contention surrounding SB 717.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MI HB4815

Human services: medical services; coverage for treatment of menopause and perimenopause symptoms and waiver of prior authorization for prescription drugs or treatments for menopause and perimenopause symptoms; require. Amends sec. 109h of 1939 PA 280 (MCL 400.109h) & adds sec. 109t.

MI HB4814

Insurance: health insurers; coverage for treatment of menopause and perimenopause symptoms and waiver of prior authorization for prescription drugs or treatments for menopause and perimenopause symptoms; require. Amends 1956 PA 218 (MCL 500.100 - 500.8302) by adding sec. 3406zz.

MI SB0718

Insurance: health insurers; coverage for treatment of menopause and perimenopause symptoms and waiver of prior authorization for prescription drugs or treatments for menopause and perimenopause symptoms; require. Amends 1956 PA 218 (MCL 500.100 - 500.8302) by adding sec. 3406zz.

MI SB0551

Human services: medical services; exemption of certain prescription drugs for the treatment or management of pain from the medical assistance prior authorization process; provide for. Amends sec. 109h of 1939 PA 280 (MCL 400.109h) & adds sec. 109v.

MI SB0397

Human services: medical services; exemption of certain prescription drugs from the medical assistance prior authorization process; provide for. Amends sec. 109h of 1939 PA 280 (MCL 400.109h).

MI S722

Establishes "New Jersey Menopause Coverage Act"; requires health insurance coverage of medically necessary perimenopause and menopause treatments.

MI A05444

Provides hospital, surgical and medical insurance coverage for perimenopausal and menopausal care and treatment.

MI S09230

Provides hospital, surgical and medical insurance coverage for perimenopausal and menopausal care and treatment.

MI SB0402

Human services: medical services; coverage for street medicine services; require. Amends sec. 109 of 1939 PA 280 (MCL 400.109).

MI HB767

Enact Menopause, Perimenopause, and Hormone Therapy Coverage Act

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