Republicans and other pro-life Democrats voted against the measure, with Senate Minority Leader Jessica de la Cruz lambasting its passage as “an egregious overstep of state government.” Ruggerio rationalized his support, describing it as “a simple insurance equity measure.” But that support may have had its limits, as he didn’t show up to Gov. In the end, not only did he support the measure, but he also helped tip the scales by voting ex-officio in the Senate Judiciary Committee to move the legislation forward with a 7 to 6 vote. The legislative journey to passage, however, didn’t come without some drama, as questions had swirled for weeks about whether the bill would receive support from Senate President Dominick Ruggerio, a pro-life Democrat. The act expands abortion coverage to Medicaid recipients and state workers, which budget officials estimate will cost $529,000 and $29,500, respectively, during the fiscal year beginning July 1. The first major legislative issue of the year cleared the General Assembly this week with the passage of the Equality in Abortion Coverage Act, first introduced by Rep. Happy Saturday! This is Eli Sherman, filling in for Ted on his weekend column while he’s out on paternity leave - you can send your takes, tips and trial balloons to and follow me on Twitter and on Facebook.ġ.
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