Congresswoman McCollum: We Must Ensure a Woman’s Right to Contraceptive Coverage

For Immediate Release: February 8, 2012
Contact: Maria Reppas, (202) 225-6631 / (202) 527-0149 maria.reppas@mail.house.gov

Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04) supported the Obama Administration's decision to ensure contraception will be covered by most employer-sponsored health plans.

"The Obama Administration's decision to require health plans to include FDA-approved birth control and other forms of contraception as part of a preventive health benefit is necessary to improving women's health and the health of their families. For women, access to contraception is medically necessary to ensure their health and well-being, according the Institute of Medicine.

"This rule protects the rights of women while respecting the rights of churches, synagogues, temples, and mosques to not cover contraception based on their religious beliefs.

"It is clear that Republicans in Congress and Republican presidential candidates are determined to deny American women access to contraception. I strongly support President Obama's efforts to improve women's health and to ensure access for women of all faiths to the services that meet their needs."

Congresswoman Betty McCollum serves on the House Appropriations and Budget Committees.

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