By Sen. Melissa Wintrow
As a state legislator and lifelong advocate for women’s health, I was proud to see my bill, Senate Bill 1234, pass the Idaho Legislature last session. Starting this month women across our state will have access to up to six months of prescription birth control at a time (previously, plans could limit prescriptions to one month at a time). This policy represents a significant step forward in supporting Idahoans’ health, economic stability, and autonomy at a time our draconian, conflicting reproductive rights laws have led to pregnant women being airlifted to Utah and more than 22% of our OBGYNs fleeing the state.
Access to contraceptives is an easy way to remove the barriers women face when trying to take control of their reproductive health, particularly in Idaho where the consequences of being pregnant – even when that’s what you desperately want – are life and death. Current insurance policies often restrict women to picking up a one- or three-month supply of birth control, creating logistical challenges, particularly for women living in rural areas, working multiple jobs, or attending college. These hurdles are compounded by Idaho’s nearly total abortion ban, which makes it more critical than ever to ensure women have the tools they need to prevent unplanned pregnancies.
Bi-partisan Consensus. Barely.
The passage of my bill shows that there is bipartisan consensus that access to contraceptives is both a practical and necessary investment in our communities. Those in the majority party who say they want to reduce abortions should note that their extreme policies have contributed to rising abortion rates.
Yet the reality is my bill barely passed, 34-35, and it took five years. That’s a testament to the perseverance of advocates, the compelling testimony of medical professionals, and the common-sense recognition of what this legislation achieves. But it shouldn’t be this hard, particularly when the research is so clear.
The benefits of providing a six-month supply of birth control are well-documented. Research shows that women who receive longer supplies of contraceptives are less likely to experience gaps in use, reducing the risk of unplanned pregnancies. For women in rural Idaho, who may live hours from a pharmacy, this policy eliminates the monthly or quarterly trips that often disrupt consistent usage.
Doctors and public health experts who supported this bill highlighted its far-reaching impact. Being able to plan a pregnancy we can also reduce maternal mortality rates and the economic strain on families. Contraceptive access is a proven way to help women achieve economic self-sufficiency, allowing them to pursue education and career opportunities without the financial and personal challenges of an unplanned pregnancy. Birth control is also prescribed for many reasons beyond preventing pregnancy – it helps manage painful, private medical conditions associated with reproductive health. Making it more available is an investment in women, families, and Idaho’s economic future.
Finding Common Ground at the Statehouse
Idaho will join a growing list of states that have implemented similar policies. Women will have one less barrier to contend with as they make personal decisions about their health and futures. This law is not just about convenience; it’s about empowering women to live their lives on their own terms.
I am grateful to my colleagues who voted in favor of this bill and to Governor Brad Little for allowing it to become law. But our work is far from over. As we look ahead, let’s continue to find ways to support Idaho women and families with policies that reflect our shared values of health, independence, and opportunity.
Melissa Wintrow is the Idaho Senate Minority Leader and represents District 19 in Boise.