State Senate panel rejects bill on pre-existing conditions

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — A bill aimed ensuring medical insurance coverage for people with pre-existing conditions in New Mexico has been voted down by a state Senate committee.
A Senate panel voted Monday to sideline the Democrat-backed initiative to enshrine into state law provisions of former President Barack Obama's health care law that protect medical patients with pre-existing conditions.
Advocates for the legislation says provisions of the Affordable Care Act are at risk from a lawsuit by Republican state attorneys general and the Trump administration's push for cheaper, skimpier health plans.
Republicans who object to the legislation joined with Democratic Sen. Clemente Sanchez of Grants in a 4-3 vote.