Hawaii Senate Bill SCR79

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/8/24
• Refer: 3/14/24

Caption

Urging Retail Stores And Pharmacies Doing Business In The State To Adopt A Policy On A National And Local Level Guaranteeing An Individual's Unhindered Access To All United States Food And Drug Administration-approved Contraceptives.

Impact

The resolution acknowledges several barriers that currently obstruct access to contraceptives, such as pharmacist refusals to dispense contraceptives, as well as logistical issues like transportation and affordability. Given that nearly half of pregnancies in Hawaii from the years 2012 to 2016 were unintended, SCR79 aims to address these gaps in access and to promote health equity among populations disproportionately affected, such as Native Hawaiian, Filipino, and Pacific Islander women. This push aligns with public health strategies intended to improve maternal health outcomes and reduce related health risks.

Summary

SCR79 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution that urges retail stores and pharmacies operating in Hawaii to adopt national and local policies ensuring individuals have unhindered access to all U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved contraceptives. The resolution highlights the critical importance of access to contraception in enhancing women's health and well-being, and its role in reducing unintended pregnancies, which have been a significant concern in the state. This reflects a broader commitment to women's rights and reproductive health within the legislative agenda.

Contention

While SCR79 is primarily an urging resolution without the force of law, it signals an important stance by the Hawaii legislature on reproductive rights and access to healthcare. Potential contention may arise from opposition regarding the demand for pharmacies to lower barriers to contraceptive access, particularly in communities where socio-economic factors hinder such access. Advocates may be concerned about the effectiveness of urging retail policies without enforceable measures, emphasizing the need for further legislative action to ensure compliance by these establishments. Furthermore, there may be political resistance from entities that oppose provisions surrounding reproductive health.