Affordability is Access Act of 2026
The source supplies the latest action, but no lifecycle stage.
Latest action (24 Sep 2026): Read twice and referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.
What this bill does
This bill, introduced by Senator Patty Murray, aims to ensure that group health plans and health insurance coverage, whether for groups or individuals, would be required to cover over-the-counter contraceptives. The specific details of how this coverage would be implemented, such as any potential co-pays or limitations, are not yet available as the full text of the bill has not been published.
If enacted, this legislation would directly impact individuals covered by group health plans and those with individual health insurance policies by potentially making a wider range of contraceptive options accessible without a prescription and covered by their insurance. The bill's stated purpose from its title is to mandate this coverage for over-the-counter contraceptives.
As of now, S. 5539 has been introduced in the 119th Congress. Its current status is "Introduced," with the latest action being its introduction on September 24, 2026. The bill will now proceed through the legislative process, which typically involves review and potential amendments in committees before it could be considered by the full Senate and then the House of Representatives.
Plain-English summary generated by Bill100 AI from the official record. Always verify against the source below.
Timeline
24 Sep 2026
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.
Common questions
- What does S. 5539 do?
- This bill, introduced by Senator Patty Murray, aims to ensure that group health plans and health insurance coverage, whether for groups or individuals, would be required to cover over-the-counter contraceptives. The specific details of how this coverage would be implemented, such as any potential co-pays or limitations, are not yet available as the full text of the bill has not been published. If enacted, this legislation would directly impact individuals covered by group health plans and those with individual health insurance policies by potentially making a wider range of contraceptive options accessible without a prescription and covered by their insurance. The bill's stated purpose from its title is to mandate this coverage for over-the-counter contraceptives. As of now, S. 5539 has been introduced in the 119th Congress. Its current status is "Introduced," with the latest action being its introduction on September 24, 2026. The bill will now proceed through the legislative process, which typically involves review and potential amendments in committees before it could be considered by the full Senate and then the House of Representatives.
- Has S. 5539 become law?
- The source does not supply a confirmed lifecycle stage for S. 5539. Check the latest action and official source below.
- Who sponsored S. 5539?
- S. 5539 was sponsored by Sen. Murray, Patty [D-WA] (D-WA), with 32 cosponsors.
- What's the latest action on S. 5539?
- Read twice and referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. (24 Sep 2026).
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