Stambaugh’s bill to help women access pharmacy-prescribed birth control signed into law
Rep. Melanie Stambaugh’s bill to increase awareness that contraceptives can be prescribed by pharmacies was signed into law Thursday by Gov. Jay Inslee. Under House Bill 2681, the Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission (PQAC) will be tasked with developing a sign to inform women about access to birth control in Washington state pharmacies.
In Washington state, pharmacists can prescribe birth control under a Collaborative Drug Therapy Agreement (CDTA). The Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission regulates the practice of pharmacy and enforces all laws placed under its jurisdiction.
Stambaugh, R-Puyallup, says heightening awareness about the availability of birth control in pharmacies will expand access for women.
“Many women are unaware pharmacies can prescribe birth control in Washington state. Education and awareness are precursors to access, which is why this bill is an important step forward for women’s health,” said Stambaugh. “Women who have access to birth control have higher education levels, career achievement and wages during their lifetime. It is crucial we continue working to increase access for women in our state.”
Stambaugh’s bill was approved 92-4 in the House and 46-3 in the Senate. It will go into effect June 2016.