The bill seeks to modernize and correct various statutes under the jurisdiction of the insurance commissioner in Washington State by repealing outdated laws and aligning state policies with federal regulations. It amends multiple sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW), including RCW 42.56.400, 48.14.070, and 48.19.460. Key changes involve the insertion of new language that clarifies definitions and requirements for insurance practices, such as exempting certain records from public disclosure and adjusting timelines for tax refund requests. The bill also emphasizes the confidentiality of sensitive documents related to health care, aiming to enhance consumer protection and operational efficiency within the insurance sector.

Additionally, the bill enhances regulations surrounding health insurance coverage, particularly for gender-affirming treatments and hearing instruments. It prohibits health carriers from denying coverage for medically necessary gender-affirming treatments and mandates coverage for hearing instruments, including necessary assessments and fittings. Key insertions include requirements for health carriers to cover these treatments and establish biennial reporting on geographic access to gender-affirming care. The bill also updates reporting language for dental plans and medical malpractice insurance, ensuring transparency and accountability. Certain provisions are set to take effect on January 1, 2026, allowing health carriers time to comply with the new requirements.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 42.56.400, 48.200.040, 48.19.460, 48.19.501, 48.19.540, 48.37.050, 48.38.010, 48.38.012, 48.43.0128, 48.43.115, 48.43.135, 48.43.743, 48.135.030, 48.02.190, 48.140.050, 48.150.100, 48.160.020
Substitute Bill: 42.56.400, 48.200.040, 48.19.460, 48.19.540, 48.37.050, 48.38.010, 48.38.012, 48.43.0128, 48.43.135, 48.43.743, 48.135.030, 48.02.190, 48.140.050, 48.150.100, 48.160.020
Bill as Passed Legislature: 42.56.400, 48.200.040, 48.19.460, 48.19.540, 48.37.050, 48.38.010, 48.38.012, 48.43.0128, 48.43.135, 48.43.743, 48.135.030, 48.02.190, 48.150.100, 48.160.020
Session Law: 42.56.400, 48.200.040, 48.19.460, 48.19.540, 48.37.050, 48.38.010, 48.38.012, 48.43.0128, 48.43.135, 48.43.743, 48.135.030, 48.02.190, 48.150.100, 48.160.020