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Bill

SB 6306

Requiring medical malpractice insurance coverage for health care providers who perform an abortion.

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Phil Fortunato and 1 co-sponsor

Requires abortion providers to carry medical malpractice insurance, potentially increasing costs and affecting clinic viability in a pro-choice state.

First reading, referred to Health & Long Term Care.
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Bill Summary · SB 6306

Legislative bill overview

SB 6306 requires health care providers who perform abortions to maintain medical malpractice insurance coverage. The bill establishes a specific insurance requirement tied to abortion provision as a condition of practice in Washington state.

Why is this important

This directly affects abortion access and provider economics in Washington, a state with protective abortion laws. The requirement could increase operational costs for abortion providers, potentially affecting clinic viability and patient access, while also raising questions about insurance availability and affordability in this market.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance market feasibility: Whether malpractice insurers will provide or expand coverage for abortion services, which some insurers may avoid due to liability concerns or policy positions
  • Targeted regulation vs. standard practice: Abortion providers argue other procedures with comparable risk profiles (miscarriage management, emergency obstetrics) don't face equivalent mandates, raising concerns about discriminatory regulation
  • Access implications: Increased compliance costs could force clinic closures or reduce service availability in rural areas where abortion providers already face geographic scarcity
  • Constitutional questions: Potential conflict with Washington's strong abortion protections and whether targeted requirements on one medical procedure meet equal protection standards

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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