The New York State Health Department, under the leadership of Governor Kathy Hochul, issued an order allowing three forms of birth control to be sold over the counter at pharmacies without a prescription.
Pharmacists in Suffolk County and across New York will be able to sell a 12-month supply of hormonal pills, hormonal vaginal rings, and hormonal contraceptive patches without a prescription from a doctor.
“Starting a family is a deeply personal decision and New York State will always be a place where people can access safe and effective contraceptives,” said Governor Hochul.
There are no age restrictions concerning who can now purchase birth control over the counter. Any kid who wants to buy birth control over the counter must complete a questionnaire before it is sold to them.
Pharmacies who want to sell it must complete training guidelines established by the NYS Department of Health.
Roman Catholic Bishop Robert E. Barron, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee for Laity, Marriage, Family Life, and Youth, has harshly criticized selling birth control over the counter.
“Claims that the benefits of this action outweigh the risks are unfounded, especially in light of strong evidence of the many harmful risks of hormonal contraception to women’s health. Allowing this hormonal contraception to be dispensed ‘over the counter’ – without the supervision of a doctor and contrary to the mounting evidence of many harmful side effects – violates the Hippocratic Oath by putting the health of women at grave risk,” said Bishop Barron.