I am writing in support of the proposed bill to require coverage of abortion for public and private insurance if the plan covers prenatal care. This law is needed because right now some insurance companies provide coverage for pregnancy, but do not cover abortion, including when it is medically necessary. They’re denying health-care coverage to influence a private medical decision, including if the life of the mother is endangered, or if she is pregnant as a result of sexual assault.

By denying coverage, women with low incomes are harder hit by the restrictions. Maine’s poorest women must pay out of pocket for a service commonly covered for women with more expensive private insurance. It denies poor women their legal right to make their own choices with respect to their health.

Fifteen states, including Connecticut and Massachusetts, already use their state health-care resources to ensure coverage of abortion for women with Medicaid insurance, and it’s time for Maine to join them. LD 820, now under consideration by the Legislature, would require this coverage.

Nils Tcheyan
Orr’s Island


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