Assembly Panel Approves Vainieri Huttle Bill to Extend Access to Contraceptives

(TRENTON) – Moving to make birth control more accessible for women in New Jersey, the Assembly Financial Institutions and Insurance Committee on Thursday passed a bill (A-4503) sponsored by Assemblywoman Valerie Vainieri Huttle (D-Bergen) to require health insurers to cover a one-year supply of female contraceptives.

Under current New Jersey law, health insurers must pay for six-month refills of female contraceptives; this bill would amend the law to require coverage for 12-month supplies.

Vainieri Huttle released the following statement on the bill:

““The research is clear: birth control is most effective when taken consistently. By removing barriers to access we are ensuring that women using birth control can stay on track with their regimen.

“This bill will make it easier for women to have an ample supply of contraceptives on hand, giving them greater control over their family planning. This legislation means less time waiting in doctor’s offices or at the pharmacy and more time for themselves and their loved ones.”