Bill 118 hr 8659, also known as the Allowing Greater Access to Safe and Effective Contraception Act, aims to increase access to contraception for individuals in the United States. The bill proposes several key provisions to achieve this goal.
First, the bill would allow pharmacists to prescribe and dispense hormonal contraceptives, such as birth control pills, patches, and rings, without a prescription from a healthcare provider. This would make it easier for individuals to obtain contraception quickly and conveniently, especially in areas where healthcare providers may be scarce.
Second, the bill would require insurance plans to cover contraception without cost-sharing, ensuring that individuals can access the birth control methods that are most effective for them without financial barriers. This provision aims to reduce unintended pregnancies and improve overall reproductive health outcomes.
Additionally, the bill would expand access to emergency contraception, also known as the "morning-after pill," by allowing pharmacists to dispense it without a prescription. This would make it easier for individuals to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure.
Overall, the Allowing Greater Access to Safe and Effective Contraception Act seeks to improve access to contraception for individuals in the United States, ultimately promoting reproductive health and reducing unintended pregnancies.