Mussman Continues Fight to Make Birth Control More Accessible to Women

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Continuing her advocacy work to protect women’s unique health care needs, state Rep. Michelle Mussman, D-Schaumburg, is carrying legislation through the House that would allow pharmacists to prescribe birth control to women.

“Increasing birth control access is one of the most important tools that our state can utilize to reduce unplanned pregnancies,” said Mussman. “Unfortunately, there are many women throughout the state who are unable to easily access a doctor to get a prescription for contraception, increasing the odds of an unintended pregnancy. We have a responsibility to these women to provide them with resources that give them full control over their reproductive health.”

Mussman is the Chief House sponsor of House Bill 1442, which would give pharmacists the ability to council a woman on the wide variety of contraceptives available so that she can make the most appropriate choice for herself and potentially dispense a variety of hormonal contraceptive options during that visit. The legislation is based on similar measures that have been implemented in California and Oregon. During her time in office, Mussman has fought to ensure that women are not hindered from making their own reproductive healthcare decisions.

According to the World Health Organization, there are several reasons why increasing access to birth control is important, including pursuit of educational goals, which increase job opportunities, both of which are vital to the financial security needed to properly care for a child. Increased access to contraceptives also reduces pregnancy-related health risks, adolescent pregnancies and the need for abortion.

“Women deserve the right to decide when is the most appropriate time for them to become pregnant,” said Mussman. “By making birth control more accessible, women across the state will be empowered to achieve their personal goals, increase the likelihood of having a healthy pregnancy and birth, and most importantly welcome their precious child into a ready and stable home environment.”