Contraception Access EO (E.O. 14101)

Summary

Directs government agencies to make it easier and cheaper for people to get birth control and family planning help.

What problem does this solve?

After a major court decision, it became harder for people in some states to get birth control. This order tells federal agencies to find ways to protect and expand access to these services using government health programs.

What does this order do?

Strengthens contraception coverage under the Affordable Care Act

Directs federal agencies to consider new rules to ensure all FDA-approved contraceptives are covered by insurance plans without any out-of-pocket costs for patients.

Expands access through Medicaid and Medicare

Tells the Department of Health and Human Services to find ways to increase access to family planning services for people on Medicaid and improve birth control coverage for those on Medicare.

Promotes access to over-the-counter contraception

Asks federal agencies to consider actions that would make it easier and more affordable for people to get over-the-counter birth control, including emergency contraception.

Ensures coverage for federal employees and veterans

Directs the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs, and the Office of Personnel Management, to ensure strong coverage of contraception for military members, veterans, and federal workers.

Supports federally funded health clinics

Encourages health centers that receive federal money, like Title X clinics, to offer more and better family planning services and provides them with support and training.

Involves colleges and universities

Tells the Secretary of Education to meet with colleges to share ideas on how to make birth control available to students and to raise awareness about their options.

Who does this affect?

Women
People seeking contraception
Health insurance policyholders

What is the real world impact?

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Protects access to reproductive healthcare

Responds to the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade by directing federal agencies to protect and expand access to contraception, which is seen as more critical after the ruling.

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Promotes women's health and economic stability

Supports the idea that access to contraception leads to better health for mothers and children, more educational and job opportunities, and higher lifetime earnings for women.

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Uses existing laws to advance policy

Directs agencies to use their authority under existing laws like the Affordable Care Act to strengthen contraception coverage. This approach uses executive power to achieve policy goals without needing new laws from Congress.

When does this start?

This executive order became effective on June 23, 2023, the day it was signed.