Iowa Attorney General Suspends State Coverage of Contraceptives and Abortions for Rape Victims

The Iowa Attorney General's Office has paused payments for emergency contraception and abortions for victims of sexual assault, drawing criticism from victim advocates. The move is part of a review of victim services by Republican Attorney General Brenna Bird, who defeated Democrat Tom Miller in November. Under Miller, Iowa's victim compensation fund paid for Plan B and other treatments to prevent pregnancy. The fund is required by federal regulations and state law to pay for many expenses for sexual assault victims who seek medical help. Money for the fund comes from fines and penalties paid by convicted criminals.