S 596 Massachusetts Senate · 193rd Legislature (2023-2024)

An Act relative to trans-inclusive health care access

This bill amends Massachusetts state laws to streamline access to gender-affirming health care for transgender and non-binary individuals. It prohibits insurance companies, healthcare divisions, and other regulated entities from rejecting a single letter from a qualified mental health professional that confirms the medical necessity of such care. The legislation defines a qualified professional as one who meets specific training standards set by the World Professional Association for Transgender Health. By limiting the documentation required to one letter, the bill aims to reduce administrative barriers and ensure that individuals can receive necessary treatments without facing unnecessary delays or denials.
Bill status passed 3 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2023
Committee Review
Feb 2023
House Passage
Feb 2023
Governor
Introduced Feb 16, 2023 Last action Feb 12, 2024
Floor votes

How they voted

This bill passed the House. No roll call record of that vote is available.
Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
5
Key actions
1
Committee
1
Feb 16, 2023
Lower · Passed
House concurred
lower
Feb 16, 2023
Committee
Referred to the committee on Financial Services
upper
1 primary · 7 co-sponsors

Sponsors