In Oregon, after almost fifteen years of attempts, the governor has finally signed a bill that requires insurance companies to cover birth control. It also requires that emergency rooms provide information about and access to emergency contraception for rape victims. Let’s tip our hat to the OR legislature, governor and all of the amazing women and groups who have worked so tirelessly to make this a reality. This should be federal law. But since we’re probably many years away from seeing that happen, it’s great to see that someone else is finally picking up the slack.
In Ohio, the legislature has introduced a bill that is their version of the Prevention First Act. If passed, this bill would not only instate the same policies of EC access and birth control coverage just approved in Oregon, but would also require comprehensive sex education in schools, and provide $1.7 million in funds for family planning services. Let’s keep our fingers crossed on that one.
Also, NARAL in running a letter-writing campaign to urge congress members to fight back against crisis pregnancy centers. A bill has been introduced call the Stop Deceptive Advertising for Women’s Services Act, which would finally allow the FTC to penalize those clinics that falsely advertise what services they offer. Click here to send your message.
{ 2 comments }
Interesting post. I think it is so important that birth control be available and affordable.
Thank you for the information. Letter sent.
Comments on this entry are closed.