Cephas menopause bills pass the PA House
Rep. Morgan B. Cephas October 7, 2026
HARRISBURG, Oct. 7 – Two menopause bills sponsored by state Rep. Morgan Cephas, D-Phila., passed the state House today. This legislation would expand access to hormonal and non-hormonal therapy and ensure protection for employees experiencing pregnancy-related and menopause-related conditions in the workplace.
House Bill 1345 would provide Medicaid coverage for menopause treatments. This would help ensure all menopausal women can access the FDA-approved treatments for their symptoms and are made aware of the available options.
House Bill 2135 -- the Menopause and Perimenopause Workplace Protections and Accommodations Act -- would require employers to provide reasonable accommodation for these conditions. The bill also includes protection against denying employment because someone needs accommodation. House Bill 2135 passed with an amendment establishing that an employer may require reasonable documentation from a licensed healthcare provider to confirm the condition and the limitations or symptoms that require accommodation.
Both bills are part of the “No Time for a Pause” package of menopause legislation.
“I am thrilled that my colleagues voted to pass this important legislation to make sure treatments are accessible and affordable, and that women do not have to choose between their health and earning a living,” said Cephas. “Menopause and perimenopause affect millions of women in Pennsylvania. Every one of them deserves access to therapies that work for their symptoms.
“Women also make up half the workforce in our commonwealth. Many are between 40 and 64, the ages where women typically experience perimenopause and menopause. Those conditions should never cost a woman a job, a promotion or her dignity at work.
“While I am thrilled this legislation passed the House, I was disturbed to hear certain remarks from my colleagues about these conditions, including one who admitted he would not hire a woman due to menopause. These comments underscored the need for this legislation. We must continue to break the stigma, expand education about menopause and ensure protections for all Pennsylvania workers.”
Both bills now move to the state Senate for consideration.