WA Could Be First State To Require Abortion Coverage

In what has become a hot button issue, the Washington legislature is debating a bill that could have a definite effect on health insurance.

House Bill 2330 would require insurance companies that provide maternity care (which Washington insurers are already mandated to do) also provide coverage for abortions. The bill would require all insurance companies that provide care in Washington state to do so...except for those who opt out due to a conscience based objection.   Opponents say it would result in even higher abortion rates, and would violate Federal laws that stipulate that if a state receives Federal funding, it cannot force insurers to pay for abortions.  Supporters of the bill say it is necessary to preserve Washington's right for women to have abortions because of unclear stipulations in the  Obamacare Health bill.