IDAHO, USA — A bill that would mandate insurance companies to dispense six months of birth control passed the House on Monday, Mar. 11 by one vote, and is now headed to Governor Brad Littles' desk.
SB 1234 was first introduced on Jan. 17, and would add language to section 41-1853 of the Idaho Code. The bill states many insurance plans in Idaho cover only one to three months worth of birth control. The new bill would require any health plan issued after January 1, 2025, would need to dispense six months of worth of birth control.
A statement from Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates — Idaho celebrated the passing of the bill and urged the governor to sign the bill into law.
"Birth control needs to be taken regularly and on time to be effective. People deserve access to their timely medication – birth control included," said Mistie DelliCarpini-Tolman, Idaho State Director of Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates. "This is crucial so that people can have medical freedom, living their lives the way they want to. Patients, doctors and insurance companies are all on board, and we're thrilled that our legislators are, too."
The bill had also narrowly passed in the Senate earlier this month.
If the governor signs it into law, people will still need a prescription to get birth control but will be able to get a six-month prescription. Proponents of the bill have said it would help women in rural areas and cut back on doctor visits.
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