SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Rachel Ventura and State Representative Michelle Mussman worked together to spearhead legislation to expand the types of contraception pharmacists can dispense to include emergency contraception and non-hormonal options.

“Women come in all shapes and sizes so it only stands to reason that medication should be tailored to them as needed,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “By allowing pharmacists to prescribe all types of contraceptives, including non-hormonal options, this bill aims to improve access so that every individual can make the best choice for birth control.”

House Bill 3489 expands the type of contraception pharmacists can offer to include hormonal, non-hormonal and emergency contraceptives, including Phexxi (non-hormonal), Plan B (levonorgestrel pill) and Ella (ulipristal acetate pill).

“Expanding the law to include emergency and non-hormonal contraceptives gives residents timely access to methods that work best for their bodies — without having to wait for a doctor’s appointment,” said Mussman (D-Schaumburg). “Contraception works differently on different bodies. This change empowers people to choose the option that fits their needs, especially for those who face barriers to health care access already.”

If passed, Illinois would join 30 states and the District of Columbia in allowing pharmacists to prescribe contraceptives, 17 of which specify that pharmacists can dispense extended supplies of contraceptives.

House Bill 3489 passed the Senate Executive Committee on Wednesday and heads to the Senate for further action.

###