Whitmer Urges Insurance Companies To Ensure Coverage For Reproductive Health Care

Kyle Davidson

June 30

In the wake of the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer called on Michigan health insurance companies to ensure women have coverage for reproductive health care.

On Wednesday, the governor sent letters to every major health insurance provider in the state, urging them to take every action possible to fully cover reproductive health care in their plans.

“With the recent U.S. Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v Wade, Michigan women must know that they can access the care they need, regardless of their insurance provider,” Whitmer said in a prepared statement.

In her letter, Whitmer suggested companies ensure access to a wide network of in-person and telehealth providers; lower cost-sharing requirements and eliminating or reducing barriers for out-of-state care; contract with health care providers who can offer safe abortions in states where it remains legal even if Michigan’s ban comes into effect; and provide coverage for travel expenses related to out-of state care.

Abortion is still legal in Michigan due to a preliminary injunction issued on May 17 in response to a lawsuit filed by Planned Parenthood of Michigan. The injunction temporarily blocks Michigan’s 1931 abortion ban from taking effect.

Alongside the Planned Parenthood suit, Whitmer filed another lawsuit the Michigan Supreme Court, urging the court to recognize a constitutional right to an abortion under the due process clause of the Michigan Constitution. Whitmer’s suit also argues that Michigan’s abortion ban violates Michigan’s equal protection clause for reinforcing antiquated notions of women’s proper societal role.

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