Proposed New Federal Rules Would Allow Employers to Deny Essential Birth Control Coverage for Women

October 6, 2017, Washington, DC

The Trump Administration today issued new proposed rules to eliminate important provisions in the Affordable Care Act regarding insurance coverage of contraception. If enacted, this change would allow employers to deny insurance coverage for contraceptive medications and procedures if they morally object to contraception. 

Statement from Wayne C. Shields, president and CEO, Association of Reproductive Health Professionals:

“The Trump Administration is trying to authorize ideologically based politics to hold essential birth control coverage hostage. The Administration’s proposed rules to eliminate the ACA’s guarantee of insurance coverage for birth control is unconscionable.

“If this proposal stands, it will undermine a critical component of basic health care accessed by more than 60 million women. Gutting access to this important ACA provision would be a slap in the face to every woman in this country.

“Contraceptive care is essential health care—not a “nice-to-have” option. Women’s lives, their health, and their ability to support themselves and their families depend on safe, reliable, affordable contraception. ARHP staunchly opposes political ideology masquerading as health care policy. This proposal is a clear example of sanctioning dangerous politics to oppress science, and in the process, to harm the lives of millions of Americans.”

Media Contact:
Rebecca Theim
communications@arhp.org
202-378-0515

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ARHP trains, supports, and advocates for the sexual and reproductive health professionals who impact patients’ lives. Our mission is to transform and improve sexual and reproductive care and access through professional training and advocacy. We translate high-quality science into practice and policy through accredited, peer-reviewed programs and policy efforts, and we bring together professionals across disciplines and specialties for evidence-based training and network building. Learn more at www.arhp.org and support our important work at http://bit.ly/ARHP-Donate.