Bowling Green Today

U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) has joined U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) in co-sponsoring new legislation aimed at promoting access to safe and effective contraception for women and families. The Allowing Greater Access to Safe and Effective Contraception Act was introduced in the Senate on Tuesday.

The bill faced immediate opposition from Senate Democrats, who blocked it from being passed by unanimous consent on Wednesday. This action followed the failure of the Democrats' Right to Contraception Act, which did not pass due to concerns about religious freedoms and parental rights.

"The Allowing Greater Access to Safe and Effective Contraception Act is a step forward in supporting women and families by increasing access to safe, routine, and effective oral contraceptives for adults, while also bringing transparency to how Americans’ tax dollars are being spent," said Dr. Paul.

Senator Ernst added, "Despite the fearmongering from the left, it’s clear Republicans have solutions to support women and families, and they are gaining momentum. My bill will increase over-the-counter contraception options while bringing much-needed transparency to ensure the government uses tax dollars to support families. I’ll continue to stand up for women’s access to safe and effective birth control while creating accountability for the Democrats’ radical agenda."

The proposed legislation aims specifically to increase the availability of birth control options on the market, provide more access to over-the-counter contraception options for women, and bring transparency regarding how government agencies spend tax dollars supporting women and families.

The bill is also co-sponsored by U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), along with Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Steve Daines (R-MT), Todd Young (R-IN), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Jim Risch (R-ID), John Cornyn (R-TX), John Thune (R-SD), and Roger Marshall (R-KS).