Measure approved in Oregon requires insurers cover abortions

A measure now heading to the desk of Oregon Gov. Kate Brown (D) requires insurers in the state to cover abortions and other reproductive health services for all patients at no cost.

The bill, which passed in the Oregon state Senate 17-13, ensures that women are not denied access due to income, citizenship status, or gender identity, and does have some religious exemptions. Additionally, over the next two years, the measure would allocate nearly $500,000 to expand reproductive health coverage for immigrants who are not eligible for Medicaid, The Associated Press reports.

Oregon does not have tight abortion restrictions like some states, and there are no waiting periods or spending limits on using taxpayer money. The measure was introduced in early March as Republicans in Washington began to move forward with their attempt to repeal ObamaCare.

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