Michigan AG Leads Multi-State Opposition to ACA Abortion Coverage Restrictions

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, alongside a coalition of 21 states, has urged congressional leaders to reject proposals that would impose restrictions on Affordable Care Act (ACA) insurance plans prohibiting abortion coverage. The coalition argues that such restrictions undermine state sovereignty, conflict with state laws, and jeopardize access to essential health care. The letter comes amid negotiations to extend ACA tax credits, which are set to expire soon, with some congressional members conditionally supporting the extension only if abortion coverage is excluded from ACA plans receiving federal tax credits. Michigan and coalition states currently allow abortion coverage in ACA plans, and proponents emphasize that eliminating this coverage would raise insurance costs and restrict access to comprehensive reproductive care. The coalition clarifies that federal funds do not pay for abortion services in Michigan; these services are funded through separate enrollee fees. The letter defends state authority in health care policymaking, citing the ACA's framework and sovereign rights. The discussion occurs in the context of increased health risks in states that limit abortion access, including rises in sepsis and pregnancy-related deaths. This proposal is viewed as part of broader federal attempts to restrict reproductive health care access, following prior actions such as efforts to defund Planned Parenthood and restrict abortion services in Veterans Affairs medical centers. The coalition requests congressional protection for state autonomy and continued access to affordable, high-quality reproductive health care services.