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Equality in Abortion Coverage Act draws hours of testimony at Rhode Island State House


Rhode Island State House. (WJAR)
Rhode Island State House. (WJAR)
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There were hours of testimony from people for and against a bill to provide abortion coverage for state employees and Medicaid recipients at the Rhode Island State House Monday.

The Equality in Abortion Coverage Act would eliminate bans on abortion coverage in the state.

The bill's sponsor, State Rep. Katherine Kazarian, says abortion services are still out of reach for many people who don't have private insurance or are not able to pay the costs out of pocket.

She says current state law prohibits people on Medicaid and state employees from using their health insurance to get an abortion except in cases of rape or incest or where the mother's life is in danger.

Critics say these services should not be funded by taxpayers.

"When our answer to women and families who live in poverty is that there is no hope, which is what killing an innocent child tells them. We are not giving them the respect and dignity they deserve,” said Lisa Cooley with the Diocese of Providence.

Supporters of the bill disagree.

"Laws that prohibit insurance coverage of abortion disproportionately affect those who are already at risk for sub-optimal health outcomes. Those who have been systematically devalued in our state and country’s history. These are the patients for which the racism embedded in our healthcare system puts them at risk of severe maternal morbidity,” said OBGYN Dr. Anna Whelan.

This bill would add Rhode Island to 16 other states that currently allow Medicaid programs to cover abortion.

After Monday’s hearing the committee recommended it be held for further study.


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