The NDP is calling on the Houston Government to make contraception free.
“Universal coverage of contraception would save people money out of pocket and help them and the province avoid future medical expenses,” said NDP Leader Claudia Chender. “It also helps ensure choice and equity in reproductive health. BC is leading the way, I hope we’ll see similar advances in the Nova Scotia budget next month.”
The party tabled legislation in November of 2021 that would provide coverage under MSI. They say in March 2020, the Liberals would review MSI regulations to cover the cost of IUD’s, but there’s been little action taken.
“Cost shouldn’t be a barrier for those who want access to contraceptives,” said NDP Health and Wellness spokesperson Susan Leblanc. “Reproductive health care is health care and the cost of prescription contraceptives is a serious barrier for many people. Women, trans and non-binary people, people with lower incomes and young people deserve to be able to access contraceptives without delay.”
British Columbia recently made prescription birth control free to all residents, making it the first jurisdiction in Canada to do so.