Topeka ? A battle over abortion is brewing concerning a bill that is scheduled for a public hearing today before the House Insurance Committee.

State Rep. Virgil Peck, R-Tyro, said House Bill 2564 would require people who want health insurance that covers abortion to pay extra for that and get a separate rider for their policy.

He said this is needed so people who are opposed to abortion aren’t paying for coverage for services that they find objectionable.

Kari Ann Rinker, lobbyist for the Kansas chapter of the National Organization for Women, said the bill represents bad public policy.

“Does this mean that we should enact state mandates to address all morally opposed activities with which our money may be mingled?” she asked. “Once this door is opened it may be difficult to shut.”