October 6, 2009
Casey straddling issue of taxpayer-funded abortion
by Josh Drobnyk
The Morning Call
Sen. Bob Casey finds himself at the dividing line of a debate over abortion rights and the proposed health care overhaul, with social conservatives pressing to deny subsidies to health insurance plans that cover the procedure.
In most instances, the use of federal money to pay for abortions has been banned for more than 30 years. The proposed health care bills, though, would subsidize insurance for low- and moderate-income Americans, helping people afford plans that might cover abortions.
That prospect has ignited yet another battle over the health care overhaul. It is a sticking point that could hinge on a small group of socially conservative Democrats, Casey included.
The Pennsylvania Democrat, a supporter of President Barack Obama's health care proposal, backed unsuccessful committee attempts to prevent plans that take part in the proposed insurance ''exchange'' from covering abortions. He supported the final measure that cleared the Health, Employment, Labor and Pensions Committee.
Read the complete story (Some news sites require registration)
