OLYMPIA – According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, the average cost of childbirth is between $14,000 and $26,000. Today, the House of Representatives took a major step toward making maternity care more accessible and affordable for families across the state. Sponsored by Rep. Alicia Rule (D-Blaine), who is also Vice-Chair of the House Healthcare and Wellness Committee, House Bill 1291 exempts delivery services from medical deductibles.
“No parent should have to choose between quality maternity care and going broke,” said Rep. Rule. “This bill ensures that essential maternity services are covered when families need them most, promoting healthier pregnancies, safer deliveries, and stronger financial security for parents.”
House Bill 1291 ensures families will no longer have to pay thousands of dollars out-of-pocket before their insurance coverage kicks in. Instead, any cost sharing for in-network delivery services will be applied toward the enrollee’s overall deductible obligation, reducing immediate financial strain and making it easier for families to plan for a new baby.
House Bill 1291 now moves to the Senate for further consideration. Learn more by clicking here or watching the video below.
