Connor Fights for Reproductive Freedom, Backs Measure Easing Access to Birth Control

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. John Connor, D-Lockport, is working to ensure that women have safe, easy access to birth control.

“Removing hurdles for women to obtain birth control makes sense,” Connor said. “Women should not have to go through an onerous process of renewing a prescription or worry about finding time for a doctor visit to obtain something as well studied as birth control, which has been on the market for over a half century at this point.”

Connor is supporting House Bill 1442, which allows women to purchase birth control medications from pharmacists without needing an appointment with a doctor. Pharmacists will also be allowed to issue as much as 12 months’ worth of hormonal contraceptives. These changes make it easier for women to stay on birth control without financial difficulties or scheduling a doctor’s visit. Connor’s bill is similar to numerous bills passed in other states, including California, Maryland and Oregon.

“There is no public good advanced by making it difficult for women to obtain birth control, particularly for those with busy schedules and those of limited means,” Connor said. “This bill will remove barriers for women.”