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Access to Contraception: Pharmacies Must Ensure Availability and No Obstruction

This new law aims to ensure that pharmacies in the U.S. must dispense approved contraceptives without undue delay. Citizens will be assured that their contraception prescriptions will be filled, and if a medication is out of stock, the pharmacy must help locate another pharmacy or order it. The law seeks to protect patients from refusals based on a pharmacist's personal beliefs and ensure free access to family planning.
Key points
Pharmacies must immediately dispense in-stock contraception and related medications.
If out of stock, pharmacies must help customers find another pharmacy or expedite ordering the medication.
Intimidation, obstruction, misrepresentation, or breach of confidentiality regarding contraception requests are prohibited.
Pharmacies cannot refuse to provide medication based on personal beliefs, unless there are valid medical or legal reasons (e.g., no valid prescription, inability to pay).
Violations can lead to civil penalties for pharmacies and allow affected individuals to sue for damages.
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_HR_6005
Sponsor: Rep. Maloney, Carolyn B. [D-NY-12]
Process start date: 2021-11-17
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-05-20
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Access to Birth Control Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_HR_6005.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2021-11-17.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Pharmacies must immediately dispense in-stock contraception and related medications.
  • If out of stock, pharmacies must help customers find another pharmacy or expedite ordering the medication.
  • Intimidation, obstruction, misrepresentation, or breach of confidentiality regarding contraception requests are prohibited.
  • Pharmacies cannot refuse to provide medication based on personal beliefs, unless there are valid medical or legal reasons (e.g., no valid prescription, inability to pay).
  • Violations can lead to civil penalties for pharmacies and allow affected individuals to sue for damages.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Maloney, Carolyn B. [D-NY-12].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-28.

CATEGORIES

Health