Bill > HB4143

This bill prohibits health insurance policies offered through the state exchange, which are plans that comply with the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, from covering elective abortions, meaning abortions performed for reasons other than to save the life of the mother, preserve the life or health of the fetus after live birth, or remove a dead fetus, and excluding contraception or abortions necessary to avert the mother's death. However, individuals, organizations, or employers can purchase optional supplemental coverage for elective abortions through a separate rider, for which an additional premium must be paid. Employers can offer this rider if the cost is not included in employee premium contributions and if employees are notified that coverage for elective abortions for minors or dependents can be used without employee consent. The bill clarifies that insurers, health maintenance organizations, or employers are not required to offer this optional rider, and it does not apply to benefits provided under Title XIX of the Social Security Act (Medicaid) or create a right to abortion, with all abortions still subject to existing laws. This provision applies to new and renewed policies starting from the bill's effective date.