State AGs Seek To Enjoin Final Broad ACA Exemptive Rules On Contraceptives

Attorneys general from 14 states have filed a motion for a preliminary injunction in a California federal district court against various federal departments.  The motion seeks to prevent Trump Administration rules expanding religious and moral exemptions from the Affordable Care Act contraceptive coverage mandate from taking effect. The motion and memorandum in support (full text) in State of California v. Azar, (ND CA, filed 12/19/2018) contends that the new rules are contrary to the text and purpose of the Affordable Care Act and were adopted without meeting Administrative Procedure Act requirements. Interim Final Rules similar to the Final Rules at issue in the case have already been enjoined by the courts. (See prior posting.)  Consumer Affairs reports on the preliminary injunction motion.