THE FOLLOWING RELEASE IS FROM CONGRESSWOMAN ROBIN KELLY’S OFFICE
WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02) introduced the Access to Birth Control Act, which would guarantee patients’ timely access to prescribed and over-the-counter birth control at pharmacies. Since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade three years ago tomorrow, refusals in pharmacies to fulfill a birth control prescription or purchase have increased.
“Birth control is safe, effective, and essential for healthcare,” said Rep. Kelly. “No pharmacy employee or politician should weigh into such a private decision as to if or when to start a family. My bill removes barriers that obstruct a patient’s right to birth control so everyone can access birth control without intimidation, harassment, or discrimination.”
According to the National Women’s Law Center, pharmacists have refused to fill prescriptions for birth control or provide emergency contraception over the counter to patients in 26 states and the District of Columbia. These refusals are based on personal beliefs and can negatively impact a patient’s health. Additionally, these refusals disproportionately affect people of color, low-income people, LGBTQ people, and those who live in rural and other underserved areas.
The Access to Birth Control Act has over 40 original cosponsors in Congress. It has been endorsed by 10 organizations including the National Family Planning and Reproductive Health Association, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the National Health Law Program.
