Congresswoman Robin Kelly Reintroduces Access to Birth Control Act

Patients have been denied their birth control medication or purchases at pharmacies, endangering patient's health and increasing the risks of an unwanted pregnancy. The bill would also require pharmacies to operate in a non-threatening environment.

"We must remove all barriers obstructing a patient's right to safely access birth control. A pharmacy employee's non-medical opinion should never weigh into a private health decision," said Congresswoman Robin Kelly. "The Access to Birth Control Actis especially important to reduce disparities for people of color, who face heightened discrimination and harassment when buying necessary reproductive care. I will always fight to protect birth control as an essential part of reproductive freedom."

"Reproductive rights are under attack across our nation, and the Access to Birth Control will defend against relentless attacks on birth control," said Senator Booker. "Nobody should face intimidation or interference when seeking access to essential health care, including when trying to access contraception. We must ensure everyone is able to maintain autonomy over their bodies, their reproductive choices, and if and when they choose to start a family."

"Access to birth control is essential-and Congress should do its part to ensure that women can obtain contraception without delay, without fear or intimidation, and without exception," said Senator Murray. "This bill is simple and especially important in light of increased threats to contraceptive access from Republican anti-abortion extremists. I'll always fight to make birth control accessible, available, and affordable for every woman."

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.

To read the full text of the bill, click here.