HHS is investigating 13 states over potential violations of a federal conscience protection law tied to abortion coverage.
HHS’ Office for Civil Rights launched the investigations under the Weldon Amendment, which prohibits federal, state or local governments from discriminating against healthcare entities that decline to provide, pay for or cover abortion services based on conscience objections.
The agency said the investigations stem from information suggesting certain states may be “coercing” healthcare entities — including insurers and health plans — to cover or pay for abortion services in ways that conflict with the law.
“OCR launches these investigations to address certain states’ alleged disregard of, or confusion about, compliance with the Weldon Amendment,” Paula Stannard, director of HHS’ Office for Civil Rights, said in a March 19 news release. “Under the Weldon Amendment, healthcare entities … are protected from state discrimination for not paying for, or providing coverage of, abortion contrary to conscience.”
The announcement follows OCR’s recent clarification of how it interprets the Weldon Amendment. Earlier in 2026, the office rescinded a 2021 interpretation that excluded employers and plan sponsors from the definition of protected healthcare entities. OCR said regulated entities, including states, should no longer rely on that earlier guidance.
HHS framed the investigations as part of broader efforts to enforce federal conscience protections across the healthcare system. The agency said it has taken similar actions in recent months, including activity in Illinois, and has opened additional investigations tied to religious and conscience exemptions in federal programs.
The Weldon Amendment applies to a wide range of healthcare stakeholders, including hospitals, insurers and provider organizations that receive federal funding.
HHS did not disclose the 13 states under investigation.
Becker’s has reached out to HHS for comment and will update this story as more information becomes available.
