Arlington, Va.—Today, Stephanie Clifford, candidate for delegate in the 49th District, called for insurance companies who operate within Virginia to follow the Institute of Medicine recommendations to cover birth control free of co-pays.
“By improving women's access to birth control we can reduce the number of unplanned pregnancies,” said Clifford. “If the GOP is serious about reducing the number of abortions in the Commonwealth, they shouldn’t focus on forcing clinics to close or scaring women away from real healthcare options, they should join me in calling for insurance companies to follow the Institute’s recommendations.”
The report states that free and accessible birth control is an essential part of a full range of preventive health services that should be offered to all American women as part of the Obama Administration’s Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) of 2010.
The report was commissioned by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to identify gaps in preventive services for women as well as measures that will further ensure women's health and well-being.
Clifford said that the General Assembly and Gov. Bob McDonnell all face a test of honesty and should support the recommendations.
“Under the guise of protecting women, lawmakers have justified radical legislation that works against the health of women in Virginia,” said Clifford. “It’s nothing short of hypocrisy if they fail to support these recommendations.”
Earlier this year, the General Assembly approved a bill, which McDonnell signed, that would potentially close 17 of the 21 reproductive healthcare clinics in the Commonwealth.
“Virginia women struggle every day to afford basic birth control options,” said Clifford. “By closing these clinics, the state GOP is seriously limiting the affordability and availability of birth control and women should not be forced to choose between basic necessities and their health needs.”
“As delegate, I will work tirelessly to expand the healthcare options that will ensure the well-being and health of all women in Virginia,” said Clifford.
The Democratic Primary is on Aug. 23.
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Stephanie Clifford for 49th District Delegate
A Voice for Your Values
Stay connected with Stephanie’s campaign for 49th District Delegate by visiting the official campaign website at http://www.stephanieclifford.org/ or on Twitter @CliffordForVA and Facebook http://www.facebook.com/StephanieClifford.Virginia.
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