A new bill is being proposed that would expand abortion coverage for public and private insurance. The bill states if an insurance company provides "coverage for maternity services, [they must] also provide for abortion services."

The bill also introduces abortion coverage for those who are insured under the state Medicaid program, MaineCare. Currently, abortion is not covered by MaineCare.

This bill requires the Department of Health and Human Services to provide coverage to a MaineCare member for abortion services. The bill provides that abortion services that are not approved Medicaid services must be funded by the State. The bill also directs the Department of Health and Human Services to adopt rules no later than March 1, 2020.

There would be an exemption for religious employers (such as a church) aside for abortion services "that are necessary to preserve the life or health of a covered enrollee."

No public hearings have been announced for this bill as of posting.

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