Media Center: Press Release

“Emergency contraception is safe and effective, and more women will have access to it when this bill is signed into law,” says Physicians for Reproductive Choice and Health

Albany, NY—Physicians for Reproductive Choice and Health said that legislation passed yesterday by the New York State Senate “will lead to better healthcare and more options for women across New York.” The State Senate passed a bill that would make emergency contraception (commonly known as the “morning-after pill”) available without a prescription.

The State Assembly has already passed similar legislation, so the measure will now go to Governor George Pataki. According to Physicians for Reproductive Choice and Health, seven other states already have similar laws – including New Hampshire, where the governor signed a bill into law last week.

Katharine O’Connell, MD, a member of Physicians for Reproductive Choice and Health and a physician in New York said, “This is an important step forward for New York’s women and for all of us who believe in providing sound healthcare to our patients. This legislation will lead to better healthcare and more options for women who want to prevent unintended pregnancies. Emergency contraception is safe and effective, and more women will have access to it when this bill is signed into law.”

“I treat many women who need emergency contraception, and they’ll be able to act responsibly and prevent pregnancies as a result of this legislation. As a doctor, I want my patients to have access to the most complete and effective medical care possible – that’s exactly what this legislation does,” O’Connell said.

The bill is S.3661, the Unintended Pregnancy Prevention Act.

PHYSICIANS AVAILABLE FOR COMMENT