Pro-life and pro-abortion advocates have responded to a bill introduced February 28 which would radically transform health care in the United States and provide government funding for abortion services through Medicare expansion.

The Medicare for All Act of 2019 was introduced February 28 by Reps. Pramila Jayapal (D-WA) and Debbie Dingell (D-MI). The bill is co-sponsored by more than 100 House Democrats. Jayapal is also the co-chair of the House Progressive Caucus.

In a statement published to her website, Dingell said that “the time is now to ensure every American has access to quality, affordable health care,” and that this bill is a “critical step in this long journey.”

If the bill were to become law, the federal government would effectively remake the healthcare system, banning private insurance plans. Under its provisions, all citizens would be covered and would receive most primary care free at the point of use, not paying costs out-of-pocket for care including vision, dental, and long-term care.

The bill also aims to introduce universal “comprehensive reproductive health” coverage for women, including abortions. It is unclear what the scope of abortion provisions would be, or if doctors would be able to refuse to participate in abortions if they are morally opposed to the procedure.

Full story at Catholic News Agency.