The state House of Representatives has approved a bill to limit abortion coverage in policies purchased through insurance exchanges that the federal health care law requires.
The House voted 146-45 Monday night to give final approval to the measure, which now goes to the Senate.
The bill would limit coverage for abortion in plans purchased through the exchanges to cases involving rape, incest or imminent death of the mother.
Republicans said the bill seeks to exercise the state's right to limit abortion coverage through the exchanges that are to be set up by 2014.
Rep. Babette Josephs says the exchanges are designed to help small businesses and nonprofits find affordable insurance. The Philadelphia Democrat says the bill is “a monstrosity” that attempts to limit coverage even before it becomes available.
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