Church hits wall in quest to undo Washington abortion coverage mandate

A Ninth Circuit panel ruled against Cedar Park Assembly of God of Kirkland, finding Washington's Parity Act and conscience statute don't force the church to cover or pay for abortion services despite its religious objections. The court found abortion-free health plans are available and that the church's preferred insurer, Providence, simply doesn't offer plans in the counties where the church operates, a business decision rather than a legal barrier.

The panel found the challenged laws neutral and generally applicable, with one judge dissenting and arguing the law burdens the church's religious exercise. The church has been fighting the 2018 law since 2019 and says it is evaluating its options.

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