Alaska2026Passed Legislature
SB168
Alaska SB 168: Medical Assistance for Family Planning Services
Last scannedSep 10, 2026, 12:32 AM
In one sentence
This bill allows Alaska to offer family planning services through its medical assistance program if the federal government approves or waives approval of a state plan change by January 1, 2026.
What it does
- Adds family planning services and supplies as an optional benefit under the state's medical assistance law.
- Limits eligibility for these new benefits to individuals of child-bearing age who are not pregnant.
- Sets a household income limit at 225 percent of the federal poverty line for people receiving these specific services.
- Requires the Department of Health to submit changes to the state plan for approval by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
- States that this law only becomes active if federal officials approve or waive the need for approval before January 1, 2026.
Who it affects
- Individuals in Alaska who are of child-bearing age but not pregnant.
- People whose household income is at or below 225 percent of the federal poverty line.
- The Department of Health, which must manage the plan changes and notify officials.
Limits and unknowns
- The law does not take effect unless federal approval is received or waived by January 1, 2026.
- The bill text lists family planning as an optional service but does not detail the specific types of supplies included.
Plain language
Terms to know
- Medical Assistance
- A government program that pays for health care services for people with low income.
- Family Planning Services
- Health care and supplies related to preventing pregnancy or planning a family, such as birth control.
- Federal Poverty Line
- A yearly income level set by the U.S. government used to decide if someone qualifies for financial help.
Official record
Sources
Official summary
MEDICAL ASSISTANCE; FAMILY PLANNING An Act relating to medical assistance eligibility for family planning services; and providing for an effective date.
Official activity
Bill history
- (S) REFERRED TO HEALTH & SOCIAL SERVICES782
- (S) HSS, FIN782
- (S) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS782