Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy has vetoed a bipartisan bill that aimed to mandate insurance companies to cover up to a year's supply of birth control at once. The bill, which received strong support in the state Legislature, was seen as crucial in improving access to contraceptives, particularly in rural areas.
The governor's spokesperson cited the wide availability of contraceptives as the reason behind the veto, stating that forcing insurance companies to provide mandatory coverage for a year was deemed as poor policy.
The measure, known as HB 17, passed with significant margins in both the Republican-controlled House and the Senate with bipartisan leadership. Notably, insurance companies did not oppose the bill, emphasizing its importance in expanding access to essential medication.
Reacting to the veto, Democratic Representative Ashley Carrick, the bill's sponsor, expressed deep disappointment, highlighting the extensive community support and collaborative efforts with insurance companies that went into the legislation. Carrick emphasized the necessity of ensuring every Alaskan, regardless of their location, has access to vital medications like birth control.
The veto of HB 17 by Governor Dunleavy comes after years of advocacy and positive engagement with stakeholders, raising concerns about the potential impact on individuals' ability to obtain necessary contraceptives. The decision has sparked debate and criticism, with supporters of the bill questioning the rationale behind denying expanded coverage for birth control.
