News Release
April 04, 2025
Liias’ bill codifying Apple Health coverage for HIV antiviral drugs signed into law
OLYMPIA — Bipartisan legislation ensuring the state’s Medicaid program continues to cover HIV antiviral drugs without prior authorization was signed into law Friday.
The bill, sponsored by Sen. Marko Liias (D-Edmonds), requires the Health Care Authority continue covering all HIV antiviral drugs approved by the Food and Drug Administration without prior authorization for clients enrolled in Apple Health, the state’s Medicaid program. The Legislature appropriated funds for this coverage in the 2023-25 operating budget, and the bill codifies the requirement in state law.
“This brings us one step closer to eradicating HIV and AIDS in Washington. Now patients statewide will continue to have access to antiviral drugs without any unnecessary barriers,” Liias said. “We know this is policy reduces transmission and keeps people healthy, and I’m thrilled to see it signed into law.”
Consistent use of HIV antiviral drugs reduces the amount of virus in the body, making it non-transmittable through sex. Research has found HIV treatment also significantly reduces the risk of transmission through pregnancy and breastfeeding.
David Ramos, the public policy manager for the Cascade AIDS Project — the oldest and largest community-based provider of HIV services, housing, education, and advocacy in Oregon and southwest Washington — said Medicaid coverage of HIV antiviral drugs is not only an access issue but an equity one.
“Historically marginalized communities are at a disproportionate risk for HIV transmission. They’re also disproportionately likely to be insured via Medicaid and furthermore unlikely to be able to afford these critical preventative measures without coverage,” Ramos said in testimony to the Senate Health & Long-Term Care Committee. “This bill presents an opportunity to ensure that Washingtonians can access critical preventative drugs.”
The bill builds on Liias’ efforts to expand access to lifesaving care for Washingtonians. In prior legislative sessions, Liias sponsored SB 5142 and SB 6127 to increase access to HIV treatment and post-exposure drugs.
The new law goes into effect in July.
Source: Sen. Marko Liias | Senate Democrats - | WA.gov https://senatedemocrats.wa.gov/liias/2025/04/04/liias-bill-codifying-apple-health-coverage-for-hiv-antiviral-drugs-signed-into-law/
For more HIV and AIDS News visit...
Positively Positive - Living with HIV/AIDS:
HIV/AIDS News |
