Public radio from Western Michigan University 102.1 NPR News | 89.9 Classical WMUK
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

State Democrats Propose Bill to Increase Access to Birth Control

Melissa Benmark
/
WKAR

The state would have to take measures meant to increase access to birth control under new proposals in the state Legislature.

Democrats unveiled the forthcoming bills on Wednesday. They would require businesses to inform workers and job applicants of reproductive health care coverage and require the state to distribute information about emergency contraception. Health facilities would also be required to treat women after sexual assaults and make emergency contraception available to them.

“It’s sadly true that the topic of birth control has been contentious in recent years. But it’s also true that birth control is a nearly universal need for women,”

said state Rep. Winnie Brinks (D-Grand Rapids).

“Birth control is a cornerstone of women’s health, their ability to get an education, and their economic security.”

Groups that have opposed other pro-birth control measures declined to comment on the new proposals.

Related Content