Man of Steele to the rescue...
The GOP is doing its darndest to quickly move on from an embarrassing revelation -- that even as congressional Republicans insist that the health care overhaul does not cover abortions, the national party's own health plan covers elective procedures.
Late Thursday night, the Republican National Committee acknowledged that its health plan, as far back as 1991, included some coverage for elective abortion. Chairman Michael Steele instructed the RNC's director of administration to opt out of any coverage for elective abortion services in its health insurance policy, the party said.
That's great.
Knowing they are totally busted for a "do as I say, not as I do" moment the RNC is moving quickly to remove abortion provisions of their own healthcare plan (They are covered by Cigna.)
This may present some difficult issues, for CIGNA.
How do exactly you rewrite a national health coverage and reject one specific medical proceedure for one specific customer? It is akin to asking your auto insurance company not to cover your kid if they run their car into a tree, but all other accidents are covered.
It gets better...
"Money from our loyal donors should not be used for this purpose. I don't know why this policy existed in the past, but it will not exist under my administration. Consider this issue settled," Steele said in a statement.
http://www.boston.com/...
That's a good strong statement.
So now Republican women, specifically the women who work at the RNC, will be some of the only women in America for whom abortion is not covered under their PRIVATE health plans.
Republicans: Moving backwards as fast as they can.
Good luck with that.
Here's a response from women's groups.
Parenthood President Cecile Richards said it’s "no surprise" that the RNC had been offering it.
"It’s an employer that wants to provide standard health benefits for its employees," she said. "That’s why the Stupak amendment goes too far in taking away benefits that women have today, and that’s why women won’t allow the Stupak amendment to become law."
Good job Politico for unveiling this amazing hypocrisy yesterday.
And thank you Head Teabagger, Chairman Steele, for now making it a two day story.
Now if we can get Democrats to realize what a stupid idea the Stupak amendment is we will be getting some where. Or will the DNC (under pressure from conservative dems) now move quickly to remove abortion coverage from their health plan as well?
UPDATE: Cigna plans cover contraception for women. Where does Chairman Steele stand on that issue?