Representative Nikema Williams (D-GA), alongside Representative Ritchie Torres (D-NY), recently introduced the Equity in STI Testing Act, legislation that would make certain sexually transmitted disease tests free of charge.
How will this bill make STI testing free of charge? The legislation will require coverage for STI testing without patient cost-sharing under Medicaid, Medicare Advantage, CHIP, TRICARE, the Indian Health Service, and for veterans.
The legislation is expected to make regular STI testing available for millions of Americans, without out-of-pocket costs.
What lawmakers are saying:
- Rep. Nikema Williams: “For years, I worked on the front lines bringing sexual healthcare to those who needed it most. Far too often, those people were already excluded from our healthcare system. My Equity in STI Testing Act will help ensure that everyone has access to STI testing. This is one step toward creating a more just and equitable healthcare system, and I won’t stop fighting until there are no barriers to essential healthcare, including STI testing.”
- Rep. Ritchie Torres: “In the Bronx, I’ve seen what happens when people can’t afford the care they need until it’s too late. STIs are common, treatable, and preventable, but only if people can get tested without worrying about the bill. The Equity in STI Testing Act is a simple, common-sense fix: no cost sharing for testing under Medicaid, Medicare Advantage, CHIP, TRICARE, the Indian Health Service, and for our veterans. Public health shouldn’t come with a price tag. I’m proud to co-lead this bill with Congresswoman Williams.”
Further Context: The legislation received endorsements from several organizations including AID Atlanta, the American Academy of Family Physicians, the Empowerment Resource Center, the Georgia AIDS Coalition, the HIV + Hepatitis Policy Institute, the HIV Medicine Association, the Human Rights Campaign, and the National Alliance of State and Territorial AIDS Directors.
STI infection is prevalent and impacts Americans of every demographic. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 2.2 million people reported STIs in 2024, and twenty percent of Americans have an STI at any given time.
