Civil liberties group wants change to abortion law

KANSAS CITY, Kansas (AP):

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) yesterday filed a federal lawsuit challenging a new Kansas law that restricts insurance coverage for abortions, arguing that the measure discriminates against women.

The ACLU of Kansas and Western Missouri claims the law is unconstitutional because it prohibits women from buying insurance coverage for all of their health needs and doesn't put a similar restriction on men.

The law, approved by state lawmakers earlier this year, prohibits insurance companies from offering abortion coverage as part of their general health plans, except when a woman's life is at risk. Under the law, individuals and employers in Kansas who want abortion coverage will have to buy supplemental policies covering only abortion.

Supporters said the measure would protect employers who oppose abortion rights from having to pay for policies that cover the procedures. Critics said the policy was designed to limit access to abortion.