Insurance coverage limits for abortions approved

Senators gave final approval May 12 to a bill that limits health insurance coverage for abortions in Nebraska.

The federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act allows each state to opt out of offering abortion coverage through qualified health plans offered in the act under a health insurance exchange.

LB22, introduced by Omaha Sen. Beau McCoy, opts out of allowing health insurance plans operating under an exchange to cover abortions unless necessary to prevent the death of a woman.

Additionally, the bill prohibits private health insurance policies in the state from providing coverage for an abortion, except through an optional rider paid for solely by the insured. A health insurance plan issuer is prohibited from providing any incentive or discount to an individual who chooses abortion coverage via a rider.

Senators voted 37-7 to pass LB22.