State law also requires state-regulated health insurers to cover all “basic healthcare services” in their plans, which state officials have interpreted to include abortions. Significantly, however, the law does not apply to self-funded insurance plans offered by employers, which are regulated by federal law. But they want more oversight to stop California from providing access to reproductive healthcare to more of its residents. California employers who want to distance themselves from abortion don’t have to buy a state-regulated plan — they have other options. But rather than steering those employers toward a solution, the Trump administration is picking a fight with California to score points with his base.

Source: Los Angeles Times January 24, 2020 22:52 UTC