Commonwealth of Massachusetts v. Department of Health and Human Services et al.

Why this Matters:

The plaintiff argues that Trump administration regulations broadening exemptions for employers from the Affordable Care Act’s requirement to cover contraception without cost-sharing violates the Administrative Procedure Act, and the First and Fifth Amendments to the Constitution. Broader exemptions to contraceptive coverage requirements could result in higher out-of-pocket costs and reduced access to services, making it more difficult for women to access this care. In this appeal, the plaintiff sees reversal of the district court’s ruling that the plaintiff failed to demonstrate injury-in-fact sufficient to establish standing to sue.

Potential Impact:

Exempting employers and health insurers from covering otherwise required contraceptive care limits access to care, jeopardizing women’s health and increasing medical expenses for patients and state governments.