SPRINGFIELD – To ensure students at public colleges and universities can access comprehensive reproductive health care, State Senator Celina Villanueva passed a measure expanding the availability of contraception and other essential services directly on campus.

“Students shouldn't have to jump through hoops to access basic health care,” said Villanueva (D-Chicago). “This legislation ensures that young people — many away from home for the first time — can get the care they need directly on campus.”

House Bill 3709 would require every public higher education institution in Illinois to provide students with access to health care professionals authorized to prescribe contraception and medication abortion beginning in the 2025-2026 school year. If the campus has a pharmacy, that pharmacy would be required to dispense those prescriptions if a student chooses not to use a third-party provider.

The measure would also require student health services websites to include information on how students can access contraception and medication abortion services on campus.

“This measure didn’t happen in a vacuum — it’s the result of students speaking up, organizing and demanding better access to care,” said Villanueva. “They know firsthand the barriers, and they’ve pushed for a system that meets their needs. I’m proud to stand with them.”

House Bill 3709 passed the Senate Executive Committee Wednesday.