MADISON, WI (AP)-- A state legislative committee has approved two Republican-backed bills that would make it harder and more expensive to get an abortion in Wisconsin.
One proposal from Representative Andre Jacque would exempt certain religious organizations and employers from having to provide health insurance coverage for contraceptives and prohibit the use of public money to pay for abortion coverage in public employees' health insurance plans.
The other proposal from Representative Steve Kestell would ban abortion for gender selection.
Critics said the proposals are just "the tip of the iceberg" as anti-abortion groups continue to push for restrictions. But proponents argued the state shouldn't pay for things that violate some people's moral values.
Both measures passed the Assembly Health Committee on party line votes Wednesday.
