SAG-AFTRA Health Plan to Reimburse Abortion Travel Costs

variety.com:

Gene Maddaus Senior Media WriterThe SAG-AFTRA Health Plan announced Friday that it will reimburse participants for travel costs when they are forced to go out of state for an abortion.The health plan covers eligible members of the union, which represents about 160,000 actors, broadcast journalists, stunt performers, news editors, and other media professionals.The trustees of the plan unanimously approved the new policy, which is retroactive to Aug.

1. Plan participants who work in a state that bans abortion will be reimbursed for travel costs and lodging in the nearest state where abortion is legal.Participants who live in a state where abortion is legal will also have the option to return home for the procedure, the plan said.

The plan will cover costs for the participant and one companion, and will reimburse for two nights in a hotel — up to $300 a night — plus additional night(s) if medically necessary.

It will also cover coach plane tickets and mileage or rental car expenses up to $65 per day. It will not cover meals or childcare costs.