Bill would require insurers to offer exceptions to step therapy rules
In committeeS. 2903Latest action
Sponsor: Lisa Murkowski · Senator · AK
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: Safe Step Act
119th Congress
Topics: Health care
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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The Safe Step Act would require employer health plans to allow timely exceptions to step therapy drug rules under specific medical conditions.
45-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
The Safe Step Act would require employer-sponsored health plans to create a clear, timely process for patients or doctors to request exceptions to step therapy requirements. Plans would have to grant exceptions in certain medical situations, respond within 72 hours (24 in urgent cases), and cover approved exceptions for at least a year. Plans would also have to publish information on the process and report annual data on requests and approvals.
Who does it affect?
The bill mainly affects people with employer-based health insurance regulated under federal ERISA law, especially patients with chronic illnesses or conditions needing specialized medications. It also affects insurers, employers sponsoring health plans, and doctors who request exceptions on patients' behalf.
Why does it matter?
Insurers and employers would need to build new appeals and reporting systems, changing how coverage decisions for certain medications are handled and documented.
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Where does it stand?
- IntroducedSep 18, 2025
- Senate committeeYou are here · Mar 19, 2026
- Senate vote
- House
- The president's desk
Right now: a Senate committee is reviewing it. If the House changes it, it goes back to the Senate before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. Hearings held.