MICHIGAN, USA — Michiganders will be able to receive free contraception in November thanks to a new statewide program announced Wednesday.
Called "Take Control of Your Birth Control," the program offers over-the-counter oral birth control pills, emergency contraception, condoms and family planning resources—all for free.
The program is being funded through the state's bipartisan budget. $5.6 million of the budget was reserved for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) to expand its family planning program.
“Everyone, no matter how much money they make, deserves to make their own decisions about their own reproductive health and future,” said Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. “With our family planning initiative, ‘Take Control of Your Birth Control,’ we are building on our work to protect reproductive freedom for all Michiganders. By expanding access to essential family planning tools, we are underscoring our commitment to ensuring Michiganders, along with their families and trusted health care providers, can make their own decisions about their own bodies and lives.”
Those wanting to take advantage of the program will need to visit a participating organization. Supplies will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
State officials say a list of locations offering these resources will be made available in the coming weeks.
Along with contraception, Michiganders can learn more about applying for Medicaid and how to get contraception covered in the future.
Officials are hoping the program will make birth control options accessible to everyone.
“Family planning tools are an essential component of public health all Michigan residents should be able to access,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, Chief Medical Executive. “We want to make sure that individuals who need and want these tools can easily obtain them, and we are committed to helping people take control of their reproductive health in a way that is both empowered and informed.”
This announcement comes as the White House proposed a plan on Monday that would require insurance companies to cover over-the-counter contraception.