Costa votes to Protect the Right to Contraception Nationwide

Press Release

Congressman Jim Costa (CA-16) released the following statement after the House passed H.R. 8373 -- Right to Contraception Act, critical legislation that would protect an individual's right to access contraceptives, and a health care provider's ability to provide contraceptives and information related to contraceptives nationwide.

"Access to contraceptives is critical for millions of Americans who use it to protect their health and the health of others,"said Costa. "Extremist-Republicans want to continue obstructing women's reproductive freedoms by limiting access to contraceptives. Congress cannot allow that to happen, and we must act now. That is why I voted for this legislation to protect access to healthcare and the right to contraception nationwide."

The Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade could pave the way for states to ban access to contraceptives. Justice Clarence Thomas suggested in his concurring opinion that the Supreme Court should also reconsider previous rulings like Griswold v. Connecticut, which granted married couples the right to access, purchase, and use contraceptives. Justice Thomas' remarks could set a dangerous precedent for our country. Access to contraceptives is a basic human right that must be protected and defended on behalf of the American people.

The Right to Contraception Act would create a statutory right for individuals to obtain contraceptives and engage in contraception. This bill would protect several contraceptive methods, medications, devices, and healthcare providers who provide contraceptives and health information related to contraception.

The bill would also authorize the Attorney General to take civil action against any state or official that implements a policy in violation of the law and allows individuals to take civil action against any individual or entity who restricts their access to contraceptives.

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