State Supreme Court Rules on Contraceptive Coverage
The Washington State Supreme Court ruled this morning that state law does not require prescription contraceptives to be covered. The class action suit, Shulamit Glaubach et al v. Regence Blueshield, is seeking reparations ‘for historically failing to provide coverage for prescription contraceptives in its group and individual health care plans.’ However, the final resolution on the issue will be handed down from the Federal Court.
“Washington NARAL is disappointed in the ruling,” stated Karen Cooper, Executive Director of Washington NARAL. “However, coverage will continue to be protected by both federal law and the rules of the Office of the Insurance Commissioner.”
The ruling does not affect the Insurance Commissioner’s ability to make rules on contraceptive coverage in health plans governed by the State.
A Federal Court in 2001 ruled in Erickson v. Bartell Drug Co. that the local pharmacy was violating Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 by failing to cover contraceptives. Title VII requires employers to include contraceptive coverage in healthcare plans offered to their employees if other prescription drugs and devices are covered, but the ruling has no effect on individual plan holders.
Washington NARAL proudly supports the plaintiffs in their long battle for the equal rights of women in Washington State and nationwide.
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