The Senate will begin debate today on an amendment to its version of the health insurance reform bill, introduced by Ben Nelson (D-NB). Nelson promises that it will be as identical to Stupak as it can be, which would (link):
Prohibit federal funds for abortion services in the public option. It also prohibits individuals who receive affordability credits from purchasing a plan that provides elective abortions. However, it allows individuals, both who receive affordability credits and who do not, to separately purchase with their own funds plans that cover elective abortions. It also clarifies that private plans may still offer elective abortions.
It's been assumed that both of Maine's senators would vote against this restriction, but after hearing this report from Josie Wong on MPBN, it's not so clear.
Sen. Collins appears to want to maintain the status quo, that is the Hyde amendment that bars Federal funds from being used to perform abortions:
"The underlying bill makes very clear that federal funds cannot be used for abortion. That is current law, that is what we ought to stick with."
But then read what Sen. Snowe has to say:
In a statement, Snowe says, "I will continue to protect coverage options for women when they are using their own personal funds to purchase health insurance."
From this, it sounds like Snowe could very well support Nelson's amendment. It never hurts to call and remind her how you feel about it:
Sen. Olympia Snowe: 202.224.5344 |
DIRIGO BLUE is available as an