The bill mandates insurance coverage for pharmacogenomic testing related to psychotropic medications, aiming to enhance treatment precision for mental health disorders. It recognizes the challenges patients face in finding effective medications, often resulting in prolonged suffering and increased suicide risk. The legislation intends to eliminate prior authorization and step therapy requirements for such testing, allowing patients to access the most suitable medications based on their genetic profiles without the need for prior treatment failures.

Specifically, the bill introduces new sections to chapters 48.43 and 74.09 of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW), requiring health carriers and Medicaid managed care organizations to provide coverage for pharmacogenomic testing starting January 1, 2026. The testing must be supported by credible medical and scientific evidence, including FDA-approved tests and recognized clinical guidelines. Additionally, the bill reenacts and amends RCW 41.05.017 to incorporate these new coverage requirements, ensuring that patients receive timely and effective treatment for their mental health conditions.