EDITORIAL: Sacrificing human rights, democracy for 'rape insurance'
Last week, Michigan enacted a law that was absurd in both what it said and how it was decided.
The Abortion Insurance Opt-Out Act – or perhaps more accurately titled, “Rape Insurance” – became law Thursday. The new provision requires women to pay an additional fee – before pregnancy – if they want to receive abortion insurance coverage.
Supporters of the law argue it ensures that anti-abortion advocates do not pay into a plan that covers something they do not support. It’s a twisted logic, and one that was only supported by 4.2 percent of Michigan voters. It never even made it to the ballot.
Gov. Rick Snyder vetoed the bill in December. He believed it wasn't appropriate in cases of rape. Through the "citizens initiative process" however, a 300,000-signature petition by Right to Life Michigan sent the bill back to the Legislature, where it was supported by the Republican-led House and Senate.
Although there are more than 9.8 million people in Michigan, 300,000 had a say in overturning Snyder's decision and altering Michigan law.
No woman wants to have an abortion.
No rape victim should be forced to either carry the child of her attacker or pay out-of-pocket for an abortion – and that’s what this law is demands women do.
By offering no exceptions for health concerns, incest or rape, the law makes a mockery women’s rights. It’s asking women to anticipate their rape.
Without purchasing the rider – which is currently only available through employer-offered insurers – women will be forced to pay entirely out-of-pocket for abortion services.
In Michigan, it can get expensive.
According to Planned Parenthood, first-trimester abortions typically cost around $500. Second and third trimester abortions, however, can run in excess of $5,000 including hospitalization fees. This puts all women, especially those who are unemployed or with low incomes, at an extreme disadvantage.
Last year, the Michigan Department of Community Health reported more than 95 percent of abortions were self-paid. While the immediate impact might not be large, Michigan is taking a step in the wrong direction.
The act wedges the gender equality gap.
Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act prohibits discrimination based on gender in “any health program or activity.” Requiring women to pay additional fees for gender-specific services seemingly does just that.
By demanding pre-planning of abortions, women whose pregnancies threaten their lives or those simply exercising their right to take control of their own bodies are being denied basic human liberties.
Passing laws with no debate and minimal public input is dangerous in politics and sets an alarming trend for both the future of women's rights and lawmaking within the state.
We urge Michigan lawmakers to reconsider the decision to pass the Abortion Insurance Opt-Out Act. Set aside special interests groups and political agendas.
Laws that affect all people – especially in such a right-infringing manner – should not be the result of a simple petition. It deserves a public vote. Let the majority decide.
