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Oregon Gov. Kate Brown signs bill that expands access to birth control for a year at a time

SALEM, Ore. – Gov. Kate Brown has signed first-of-its-kind legislation that allows women to access birth control for a year at a time.

The new law expands coverage that previously needed to be renewed every 30 or 90 days.

Supporters say it represents an important advance for women’s rights that will reduce unintended pregnancies and improve access — especially for women in rural areas.

Opponents have said the bill could drive up health care costs for employers and insurers.

The proposal cleared the Legislature with bipartisan support, and it’s not the only measure this session that aims to make it easier for women to get birth control in Oregon.

Lawmakers also are considering a bill that would allow pharmacists to write prescriptions for contraceptives after women complete a self-administered risk-screening test.

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