Bill Requiring Birth-Control Coverage for Most Federal Workers Clears House
The House voted, 224 to 198, Thursday to require most federal employees’ health care plans to cover the costs of prescription contraceptives.
The action would affect an estimated 1.2 million women of child-bearing age covered by the plans, said the provision’s sponsor, Rep. Nita M. Lowey (D-N.Y.).
“This is the biggest victory for reproductive rights since the Republicans took over the House,” Lowey said after the vote. “We took a huge step forward in our efforts to improve women’s health, prevent unintended pregnancies and reduce the number of abortions.”
Opponents, however, saw only danger in the outcome. “I believe it opens up a Pandora’s box,” said Rep. Christopher Smith (R-N.J.).
An amendment by Smith that would have forbidden coverage of prescription drugs designed to cause abortions--such as the drug RU486--was rejected, 222 to 198.
The House action would require health insurance plans used by federal employees to provide coverage for the birth-control pill, diaphragm, intrauterine devices, Norplant and Depo-Provera. The only exception would be for a few plans sponsored by the Catholic church.
Get the L.A. Times Politics newsletter
Deeply reported insights into legislation, politics and policy from Sacramento, Washington and beyond. In your inbox three times per week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
