LANSING, Mich. (WZMQ) – Michigan could see an expansion for contraceptive access in 2025. Representatives Stephanie Young (D – Detroit ), Kara Hope (D – Holt), and Julie Rogers (D – Kalamazoo) introduced the contraceptive equity package to Michigan’s House of Representatives last winter. The package was made up of three bills that were targeted toward individuals who struggled with continual access to their contraceptive prescriptions.
Two of the three original bills were passed in both chambers. The legislation would expand the list of people who can prescribe birth control to include pharmacists.
The laws cover hormonal contraceptive patches, self-administered hormonal contraceptives, and emergency contraceptives.
“I am a healthcare provider myself and so I always say my priority is ensuring affordable access to healthcare in all its forms,” Rogers said. “Especially with college students, Many of them were stating they don’t have a personal vehicle, and taking the bus was sometimes a barrier. I know in our more rural areas, including the Upper Peninsula, access to both transportation as well as healthcare deserts can be a barrier.”
Many contraceptives are prescribed as birth control, but Rogers said they heard from people who use the prescriptions to treat other conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome, endometriosis, or even acne.
A third bill in the package would have increased insurance requirements to cover a 12-month supply of contraceptives. The bill saw widespread support but was still left behind in the Senate. Rogers says she hopes to reintroduce the bill in the new legislative term.
With wait times for new patient appointments close to a year in some parts of the state, Rogers said the laws aim to help people who may not have or be close to a regular primary care provider so they can continue accessing the prescriptions they need.
The bills are just waiting to be presented to the governor, she will then have 14 days to sign the bills into law.
