Number: RS22293
Title: Federal and State Laws Regarding Pharmacists Who Refuse to Dispense Contraceptives
Authors: Jody Feder, American Law Division 
Abstract: This report provides an analysis of federal and state laws that govern whether pharmacists may refuse to fill valid prescriptions for birth control and emergency contraception or to sell the emergency contraceptive Plan B now that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Plan B for over-the-counter sale to women aged 18 or older. Such laws are sometimes referred to as "conscience clause" laws because they allow medical providers to refuse to provide services to which they have religious or moral objections. During the 109th Congress, legislators have introduced several bills that address this issue, including H.R. 1539, H.R. 1652, S. 778, and S. 809.
Pages: 6
Date: August 30, 2006