The bill establishes new requirements for health plans regarding coverage for HIV antiviral drugs, effective for plans issued or renewed on or after January 1, 2027. It mandates that health carriers provide coverage for all FDA-approved HIV antiviral drugs without the need for prior authorization, step therapy, or other utilization management protocols. However, if there are therapeutic equivalents available, the health plan is only required to cover at least one of those equivalents without such restrictions.

Additionally, the bill reenacts and amends RCW 41.05.017 to include the new section regarding HIV antiviral drug coverage, ensuring that all health plans providing medical insurance under this chapter are subject to the updated provisions. This inclusion emphasizes the importance of accessible treatment options for individuals living with HIV, while also allowing for some flexibility in coverage for therapeutically equivalent drugs.