Senate Approves Jansen Bill Limiting Abortion Coverage to Optional Rider

LANSING, Mich., Dec. 6 -- The Michigan Senate Republicans issued the following news release:

The Michigan Senate approved legislation on Thursday to prohibit insurance coverage of an elective abortion except by an optional rider, said sponsor Sen. Mark C. Jansen.

"Many pro-life Michigan families are currently paying for health insurance that automatically includes coverage for a procedure they strongly oppose," said Jansen, R-Gaines Township. "My bills protect the religious and deeply personal beliefs of thousands of Michigan residents."

Senate Bills 612-614 would require that coverage for elective abortions be provided only by an optional rider to a health plan - with a separate premium - rather than as part of the standard benefit. An individual could purchase abortion coverage as an additional rider for their policy, but the bill does not force an insurer or employer to offer the elective abortion rider.

"I sponsored these reforms to separate abortion coverage from general health care coverage in insurance policies," Jansen said. "It neither prohibits abortions, nor creates a right to abortions. It is simply about empowering consumers to be able to choose whether their insurance policy covers these procedures."

The federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act specifically allows states to prohibit abortion coverage in qualified health plans offered through an exchange. SBs 612-614 would affect health insurance plans - both in and outside any future partnership or exchange.

"I am proud to sponsor legislation that allows the residents in Michigan to uphold their values," Jansen said.

SBs 612-614 are supported by Michigan Right to Life, Michigan Catholic Conference and Citizens for Traditional Values. The bills have been sent to the House of Representatives for further consideration.

TNS JF78JF-121207-4131927 EditorFurigay