Protecting Families, Senator Wahab’s SB 257 Passes the Senate

Sacramento, CA — State Senator Dr. Aisha Wahab’s (D-Silicon Valley) PARENT Act—Senate Bill (SB) 257—passed the Senate and is now in the Assembly. SB 257 protects access to maternity care by banning health insurers from discriminating against surrogates and by making pregnancy a qualifying life event for enrolling in health insurance.

“SB 257 closes an unfair loophole in health insurance coverage,” says Dr. Wahab. “This bill will ensure consistent, equitable pregnancy-related coverage and protect access to affordable care for all—including gestational carriers and the families they help create.”

Health insurers are mandated to cover maternity care under the Affordable Care Act, but many have begun skirting that mandate—forcing surrogates to repay coverage benefits. These costs are then passed on to intended parents, making surrogacy even more financially out of reach for everyday families.

SB 257 is sponsored by the Insurance Access and Equity Alliance, and must pass Assembly policy committees no later than July 18, 2025.

“SB 257’s passage through the Senate is a powerful affirmation that every pregnancy deserves coverage—no matter how it begins. This bill protects families from unfair insurance practices and restores access to care for those most often excluded. We thank Senator Wahab for her bold leadership and applaud the Senate for its commitment to reproductive equity.” –Sarah Paige, President, Insurance Access and Equity Alliance