Story perspectives

Gates Pledges $215 M as States Expand Menopause Coverage

6/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

Melinda French Gates pledged a $215 million grant for menopause research and programs.
Louisiana’s 2024 law requires insurers to cover menopause treatment, prompting similar bills in half of U.S. states.
In 2025 Rhode Island mandated workplace accommodations for menopausal employees, prompting Maryland to plan coverage and incentives.
A 2025 study found 26 % insurance coverage for hormone-replacement therapy, with one-in-five delaying treatment due to cost, causing $1.8 billion in lost work time.

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Story summary

Melinda French Gates pledged a $215 million grant for menopause research and programs.
Louisiana’s 2024 law requires insurers to cover menopause treatment, prompting similar bills in half of U.S. states.
In 2025 Rhode Island mandated workplace accommodations for menopausal employees, prompting Maryland to plan coverage and incentives.
A 2025 study found 26 % insurance coverage for hormone-replacement therapy, with one-in-five delaying treatment due to cost, causing $1.8 billion in lost work time.