Access to Birth Control Act: Pharmacies Must Ensure Timely Provision
This act aims to ensure that pharmacies across the United States do not refuse to dispense approved contraception or related medications. This means citizens should have easier and quicker access to birth control, without fear of denial or delays, which is crucial for family planning and health.
Key points
Pharmacies must provide in-stock contraception and related medications without delay upon customer request.
If out of stock, pharmacies must immediately inform the customer and offer referral to another pharmacy or expedited ordering.
Pharmacies must ensure an environment free from intimidation, obstruction, misrepresentation, or breach of confidentiality regarding contraception requests.
Refusal to dispense is only permitted under specific conditions, such as lack of a valid prescription, inability to pay, or professional clinical judgment.
Violations can lead to civil penalties for pharmacies and allow individuals to file lawsuits for damages and injunctive relief.
Introduced
Additional Information
Print number: 119_S_2302
Sponsor: Sen. Booker, Cory A. [D-NJ]
Process start date: 2025-07-16