A new state-funded program is providing access to free contraception and birth control for Michigan families—regardless of whether it’s covered by insurance.
MICHIGAN—Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is once again leading the charge to protect reproductive freedom in Michigan—now with a new program that provides Michiganders with free over-the-counter birth control bills, condoms, emergency contraception, and more.
It’s called the “Take Control of Your Birth Control” initiative. And while supplies last, more than 300 locations across Michigan—like local health departments and community health centers—will be distributing the state-funded supplies on a first-come, first-served basis.
In a statement, Whitmer said the program is about ensuring everyone has the freedom to make their own decisions about their reproductive health—including not having children.
“We are taking action to ensure that all Michiganders have the support they need,” she said. “Reproductive health care should be between a woman, her doctor, and her trusted community. … We must always protect your fundamental right to control your health and your future.”
Through the program, all Michiganders (beginning this month) will be able to tap into a range of family planning tools—including oral birth control, condoms, and emergency contraception—without worrying about the cost. Participating distribution locations include community partners, local health departments, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services offices, as well as federally qualified health centers in every county of the state.
“We want to make sure individuals who need and want these tools can easily obtain them,” Michigan Chief Medical Executive Natasha Bagdasarian said in a statement. “This reflects the state’s ongoing commitment to ensuring equitable access to reproductive health services.”
Insurance coverage is not required to take advantage of the new resources. The program is funded through the state budget and will continue as long as supplies are available.
Click here to find an interactive map of participating locations.
The program is also focused on meeting Michiganders’ reproductive health care needs for the long-term future—including by helping women apply for coverage though Medicaid and the Plan First program, which offers coverage for a variety of family planning services.
Click here or call 855-789-5610 to learn more about the Plan First program.
Additionally, open enrollment through the federal health insurance marketplace began on Nov. 1. The Affordable Care Act guarantees coverage of women’s preventative services, including birth control and contraceptive counseling, by nearly all health insurance plans.
Click here or call 800-318-2596 to shop for an insurance plan through Jan. 15, 2025.
READ MORE: Michigan Dems pitch ‘Freedom to Plan’ bills to cut birth control costs
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