The bill aims to enhance coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of obesity under health plans in Washington State. It mandates that, starting January 1, 2026, health carriers must provide coverage for various obesity treatments, including intensive health behavioral and lifestyle interventions, metabolic and bariatric surgery, and FDA-approved obesity medications. The bill stipulates that the coverage criteria for these medications cannot be more restrictive than the FDA-approved indications, and that the treatment for obesity should be integrated with coverage for other illnesses regarding deductibles and copayments. Additionally, it allows health carriers to apply utilization management to determine medical necessity, provided that the process aligns with how other conditions are assessed.

Furthermore, the bill requires the state authority to seek federal authorization by November 1, 2025, to obtain matching federal funds for these services. Upon receiving federal approval, managed care organizations will also be required to cover the same obesity treatments as outlined for health carriers. The definitions for intensive health behavior and lifestyle treatment, FDA-approved obesity medication, and metabolic and bariatric surgery are included to clarify the scope of the coverage. The bill also reenacts and amends existing law to incorporate these new provisions, ensuring comprehensive support for obesity treatment in the state's healthcare system.