Governor Bob Ferguson signed a bill yesterday that opponents say forces all Washingtonians to pay for abortions. Senate Bill 1682 creates a savings program that will fund abortions for people who can not afford them. The funding comes from a payment from each health insurance carrier in the state pool.
Representative Matt Marshall opposed the bill, saying it forces nearly everyone to pay for some else’s abortion.
“This is an unprecedented mandate that forces every Washingtonian who buys health insurance to directly underwrite one of the most controversial medical procedures that we have through a dedicated fund with no opt-out for people with moral or religious objections.”
Before signing the bill into law, Governor Ferguson made short remarks.
“Reproductive freedom is, as we all know, under attack from the federal government. Washington State will, however, always uphold our values and protect critical healthcare for all Washingtonians.”
Republican Representative Matt Marshall tried to get two amendments into the bill. During discussion he made the point that since it’s for “reproductive health”, it should include funding for invitro fertilization and similar procedures. He also pushed for a sunset clause to the bill in 2031 so the legislature could review spending and make sure it’s being used appropriately. Both amendments were voted down.
All of our local legislators voted against the bill.
