SB335 Summary

• Alabama affirmatively opts out of allowing health insurance plans that cover abortions to participate in state health insurance exchanges created under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (P.L. 111-148).

• No health insurance contract, plan, or policy issued in Alabama may provide coverage for elective abortions unless the insured purchases a separate rider with an additional premium.

• Abortion coverage exceptions apply only when the mother's life is endangered by physical disorder, illness, or injury (including pregnancy-related conditions), or when the pregnancy results from rape or incest.

• The prohibition applies to all health insurers, nonprofit health services corporations, health maintenance organizations, self-insured employers, and other entities providing health insurance coverage subject to Alabama law.

• The act becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.