Senate President Jon Tester Hails MT AG Opinion on Contraceptive Equity, Gender Insurance Issue
Tester Requested Opinion that Provides Women Insurance Equity
Montana Senate President Jon Tester hailed a Montana Attorney General’s opinion released today saying insurance policies and benefit plans that include prescription drug coverage must include prescription contraceptives and related medical services such as routine gynecological visits.
“This is a victory for women and equality,” said Tester, who as Montana Senate president last November requested an advisory opinion from Attorney General Mike McGrath to determine if Montana law requires insurance providers that cover prescription drugs to include contraception in their coverage.
McGrath agreed, holding that Montana’s “unisex” insurance law prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex. The Attorney General’s opinion carries the weight of law unless overturned by a court or state lawmakers change the law.
“This is about fairness and basic health for Montana families,” Tester said. “Montanans value freedom and choice and consistently support common-sense policies that protect and improve women’s health. By guaranteeing coverage for contraception just like other prescription drugs, the state will help families prevent unintended pregnancies and abortion.”
Tester said federal and state laws have been interpreted to require that employers provide contraceptive coverage. Clarity in Montana’s law, Tester said, will benefit workers, employers, and insurance companies.
“I think offering coverage is the right and fair thing to do,” Tester added. “We’re talking about giving women and families access to health coverage they need and the ability to make decisions on their own.”
Tester was one of 31 Senators who supported the measure (Senate Bill 203) that would have made coverage for contraception explicit in Montana law. The bill passed the Senate but later died in the House.
[Click here to read the the press release.]
[Click here to read the whole Attorney General’s opinion.]
Posted on Tuesday, March 28th, 2006 at 2:58 pm.
