Virginia Senate Democrats Insure Women’s Futures

From the Virginia Senate Democratic Caucus:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 22, 2021

Virginia Senate Democrats Insure Women’s Futures

RICHMOND, Va.: Today, on the 48th anniversary of the Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision, two bills that promote women’s equality and health passed the Virginia Senate:

• Sen. McClellan’s SB 1276 would allow insurance companies on the healthcare exchange to cover abortion procedures
• Sen. Favola’s SB 1219 commissions a study to investigate the appropriate way family and medical leave insurance could be administered through insurance companies in Virginia

“Virginia Senate Democrats have been able to make huge strides for women’s rights in the past few years — from ratifying the Equal Rights Amendment to repealing draconian barriers to women’s health rights,” said Caucus Chair Mamie Locke. “These bills and others making their way through the legislative process address real problems for families in our Commonwealth, and prove our march toward progress cannot be stopped. We are DETERMINED to continue to get things done for ALL Virginians this General Assembly Session, and these two bills make breakthroughs for women and families across the Commonwealth.”

“Women who are covered under insurance plans on the Marketplace should not have to bear the financial burden of their right to choose,” said Sen. Jennifer McClellan. “Allowing private insurers operating on the Marketplace to cover abortion services removes unnecessary stumbling blocks families often face when making difficult decisions with their doctor.”

“Families need ways to look after one another — that has become even more apparent amidst this unprecedented pandemic,” said Sen. Barbara Favola. “I’m proud to sponsor a bill to find ways we can make sure every Virginian is able to take care of themselves and their family, not only throughout the current crisis but well into the future.”