CT SB00586

Requires individual and group health insurance policies to cover 21 preventive health services for women at no cost, including domestic violence screening, tobacco cessation counseling, well-woman visits, breast cancer risk assessment, sexually transmitted infection screenings, pregnancy-related screenings, breastfeeding support and supplies, and osteoporosis screening, effective January 1, 2018.

Mandates coverage of immunizations recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics, American Academy of Family Physicians, and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists at no out-of-pocket cost for individuals with prescription drug coverage.

Requires coverage of preventive care and screenings for individuals age 21 or younger in accordance with the American Academy of Pediatrics' "Bright Futures" guidelines at no out-of-pocket cost.

Expands contraceptive coverage to include all FDA-approved contraceptive and sterilization methods, counseling, and follow-up care with no cost-sharing; prohibits step therapy and prior authorization requirements for these services.

Provides religious exemptions allowing religious employers and individuals with religious or moral objections to exclude contraceptive coverage with written notice; exempts high deductible health plans from cost-sharing prohibitions.