OLYMPIA — The state Senate on Wednesday narrowly approved a bill requiring insurance plans in Washington that cover maternity care to also cover abortions.
In addition, the legislation requires health plans provide coverage for all contraceptive drugs, devices and other products approved by the Federal Drug Administration, as well as voluntary sterilization.
The changes apply to plans issued or renewed on or after Jan. 1, 2019.
Senate Bill 6219 passed on a 26-22 vote with all 25 members of the majority Democratic caucus and one Republican, Auburn Sen. Joe Fain, supporting it.
Sen. Steve Hobbs, D-Lake Stevens, the prime sponsor, first introduced the measure in 2012. It did not receive a vote during the past five years of a Republican majority in the Senate.
Senate Bill 6219 now goes to the House for consideration.
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