Affordability is Access Act of 2026
The source supplies the latest action, but no lifecycle stage.
Latest action (24 Sep 2026): Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committees on Education and Workforce, and Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
What this bill does
The Affordability is Access Act of 2026 would require group health plans and health insurance coverage to provide coverage for over-the-counter contraceptives. This means these contraceptives would be covered without requiring individuals to pay any out-of-pocket costs, such as copayments or deductibles, for them. The bill aims to ensure easier and more affordable access to birth control methods that are approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use without a prescription.
This bill primarily affects individuals with group or individual health insurance plans, expanding their coverage options for contraceptives. It also applies to health plans and insurers, mandating them to cover these over-the-counter products. Retailers that sell these contraceptives are also addressed, with provisions preventing them from interfering with access or purchase, as long as payment is made.
The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on September 24, 2026, by Representative Ayanna Pressley. It has been referred to three committees: Energy and Commerce, Education and Workforce, and Ways and Means. The bill will now be considered by these committees, and its next steps depend on their review and any subsequent actions by the House leadership.
Plain-English summary generated by Bill100 AI from the official record. Always verify against the source below.
Timeline
24 Sep 2026
Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committees on Education and Workforce, and Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
Common questions
- What does H.R. 10597 do?
- The Affordability is Access Act of 2026 would require group health plans and health insurance coverage to provide coverage for over-the-counter contraceptives. This means these contraceptives would be covered without requiring individuals to pay any out-of-pocket costs, such as copayments or deductibles, for them. The bill aims to ensure easier and more affordable access to birth control methods that are approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use without a prescription. This bill primarily affects individuals with group or individual health insurance plans, expanding their coverage options for contraceptives. It also applies to health plans and insurers, mandating them to cover these over-the-counter products. Retailers that sell these contraceptives are also addressed, with provisions preventing them from interfering with access or purchase, as long as payment is made. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on September 24, 2026, by Representative Ayanna Pressley. It has been referred to three committees: Energy and Commerce, Education and Workforce, and Ways and Means. The bill will now be considered by these committees, and its next steps depend on their review and any subsequent actions by the House leadership.
- Has H.R. 10597 become law?
- The source does not supply a confirmed lifecycle stage for H.R. 10597. Check the latest action and official source below.
- Who sponsored H.R. 10597?
- H.R. 10597 was sponsored by Rep. Pressley, Ayanna [D-MA-7] (D-MA), with 41 cosponsors.
- What's the latest action on H.R. 10597?
- Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committees on Education and Workforce, and Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. (24 Sep 2026).
Related bills in Health
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Accelerating Access to Critical Therapies for ALS Reauthorization Act of 2026
340B Rebate Model Delay Act
Access to Medical Supplies Act
More bills from Rep. Pressley, Ayanna [D-MA-7]
Fossil Free Finance Act of 2026
Survivors’ Rights Restitution Act of 2026
Inclusive Democracy Act of 2026
MOMMIES Act
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