CA AB298

Prohibits large group health care service plans and insurance policies from imposing deductibles, copayments, coinsurance, or other cost-sharing for in-network health care services for enrollees under 21 years of age, effective January 1, 2027

Bars individuals or entities from billing or seeking reimbursement from enrollees, policyholders, or contractholders for in-network services provided to those under 21 in large group plans

Provides an exception for high deductible health plans (HDHPs) paired with health savings accounts, which must still eliminate cost-sharing for preventive care and waive cost-sharing after the deductible is met for the plan year

Defines "in-network health care services" to include services from contracting providers, emergency services, services at contracting facilities even from non-contracting providers, and services from non-contracting providers when network providers are unavailable

Applies to health care service plans regulated by the Department of Managed Health Care and health insurers regulated by the Department of Insurance