California Insurance Updates: What SB 729 Means for You

Image of mom and baby for blog about SB 729 California IVF coverage

Update (June 2025):

Implementation of California Senate Bill 729 (SB 729) has been delayed. The law will now take effect on January 1, 2026, instead of July 1, 2025. California residents with insurance plans can expect expanded fertility coverage—including IVF—to begin in 2026. We will continue to provide updates and support as the new effective date approaches. 


More inclusive access to IVF and fertility care, coming January 2026

A groundbreaking law is changing the fertility care landscape in California. Senate Bill 729 (SB 729) mandates are now starting January 1, 2026, most large-group health insurance plans in California must cover infertility diagnosis and treatment—including in vitro fertilization (IVF).

This is more than just a policy change—it’s a game-changer for individuals and couples who’ve been navigating the emotional and financial stress of building a family. At Southern California Reproductive Center (SCCRM), we’re proud to support this major advancement in reproductive health access and help guide patients through the new coverage options.

What does SB 729 cover?

Under this new law, fully insured, large-group health plans in California will be required to offer:

  • Comprehensive infertility diagnosis and treatment, including IVF

  • Up to three completed egg retrieval cycles

  • Unlimited embryo transfers (based on established clinical standards)

In addition, SB 729 redefines infertility to include more diverse paths to parenthood. This means LGBTQIA+ individuals, single people, and others who previously may have been excluded from coverage are now explicitly supported.

Read the official bill text

Why this law matters

For too long, fertility treatment has remained out of reach for many Californians due to high costs and narrow insurance definitions. SB 729 helps remove those barriers.

Should I wait until 2026 to start fertility treatment?   

While it might be tempting to hold off until your insurance kicks in, age remains the biggest factor impacting fertility. Waiting could limit your options or affect your success rates. 

We recommend meeting with a fertility specialist now to: 

  • Understand your fertility potential 

  • Complete important diagnostic testing 

  • Create a treatment plan that works for your goals and timeline

If you’re eligible for expanded coverage in 2026, we’ll help you align your plan accordingly—but getting answers today puts you in control.  

Fertility Services at SCCRM 

Whether you're just starting or you've been trying for years, SCCRM provides a full spectrum of reproductive services, including:

We tailor every treatment plan to your unique goals, health history, and lifestyle, combining compassionate care with world-class science.

 

Your family-building journey just got easier 

SB 729 brings long-overdue relief to those who’ve been facing fertility treatment alone. Whether you're part of a same-sex couple, navigating fertility preservation before cancer treatment, or simply ready to take the next step, SCCRM is here to guide you through the new insurance landscape.

 Let’s talk about your options.

 

Medical contributions by

 
Dr. Robert Anderson Headshot

Robert E. Anderson, M.D.

Double board-certified
Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility

With over 30 years experience in the field of Reproductive Medicine, Dr. Robert Anderson has developed a highly successful approach to the treatment of every type of fertility problem. He has been practicing in Orange County longer than any other Board Certified Reproductive Endocrinologist.

Meet Dr. Anderson

 
Dr. Royster Headshot

Don Royster, M.D.

Double board-certified
Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility

With over 15 years of experience as an OB/GYN and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI) specialist, Dr. Don Royster joined SCCRM after serving on active duty in the United States Air Force for over 20 years, retiring at the rank of Colonel. He has performed over 6,000 surgeries and delivered over 1,000 babies with deployments and humanitarian missions across the globe. 

Meet Dr. Royster →

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