Mich. Gov. Snyder Vetoes Health Insurance Legislation

January 3, 2013 — Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder (R) on Dec. 28 vetoed a health insurance overhaul (SB 1293, SB 1294) because of a provision barring health plans and employers from providing abortion coverage, Reuters reports (Kelleher, Reuters, 12/28/12).

Meanwhile, Snyder vetoed legislation that would have converted Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan into a consumer-owned, not-for profit insurer. Although Snyder initially sought the legislation, he objected to language that was added to prohibit health plans and employers from offering abortion coverage (Karoub, AP/Atlanta Journal-Constitution, 12/28/12). Under the provision, women who wanted abortion coverage would have to purchase it through a separate rider (Martin, MLive, 12/28/12).

"I don't believe it is appropriate to tell a woman who becomes pregnant due to rape that she needed to select elective insurance coverage," Snyder commented. He added, "And as a practical matter, I believe this type of policy is an overreach of government into the private market" (AP/Atlanta Journal-Constitution, 12/28/12).