Young People's Voices Heard Loud and Clear

Statement from Debra Hauser, Executive Director, Advocates for Youth

Young women across the country are now one step closer to accessing birth control. Today the Obama Administration announced that student health plans will need to cover preventive services without co-pay or deductible. Starting in August, most student health plans will have to cover contraception. Schools that currently do not cover contraception will be given the opportunity to apply for a one-year waiver.

Since the beginning of the current health care debate, young people have been consistent in their vocal demand that the new health care law reflects their needs, and today's announcement from the White House is a result of their determination. From young people organizing across the country to Sandra Fluke's testimony before Congress, students have fought for contraceptive coverage to be recognized as basic health care - no matter where they go to school. The Administration has heard their voices and agrees.

In response to today's announcement Tanisha Humphrey, a Georgetown University student, said “For me, today's ruling is very personal. I want to make the responsible decision, and without birth control coverage I simply wouldn't be able to afford it. My friends and I have fought for this decision, and I'm glad the Administration has stood with us.”

To be clear, insurance coverage for birth control is an issue of basic health care. With expanded preventive care coverage, no individual will ever be required to access contraception unless they choose to do so. However, in the past months the vicious attacks ignited by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and their allies have attempted to smear birth control itself and, sadly, the millions of women who use contraception. And women, especially young women, have noticed. They will remember those who stood up to protect, as well as those who worked to undermine, their health and rights in the days to come.

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Advocates for Youth is a national organization that promotes programs and advocates for policies that protect young people's rights and empower them make informed and responsible decisions about their reproductive and sexual health.