After leaked documents showed the U.S. Supreme Court’s intent to overturn Roe v. Wade, companies are stepping up to ensure their employees can still gain access to safe abortions.
The most recent firm to announce this type of policy is Starbucks. The coffee giant revealed it will cover the cost for travel for both abortion access and gender-affirming healthcare.
“I know this is weighing on many of you, so let me be clear up front – regardless of what the Supreme Court ends up deciding, we will always ensure our partners have access to quality healthcare,” said Sarah Kelly, Executive Vice President at Starbucks. “And when actions impact your access to healthcare, we will work on a way to make sure you feel supported.”
Employees will receive reimbursement for travel expenses in relation to abortion or trans-related healthcare services if neither is available within 100 miles of where a worker lives.
While this shows a progressive step in guaranteeing workers are cared for, current trans workers have noted that it is already difficult to receive gender-affirming healthcare under the company’s current healthcare insurance. It is uncertain whether this new policy will revamp previous policies.
Other companies are also making commitments to support employees during this strain on healthcare rights, including Amazon and Microsoft.
