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Easier access to birth control has been 'a long time coming'

In the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe v. Wade, we’re seeing a surprising trend emerge: Birth control is becoming easier to get. 

Last week, the FDA approved the first oral contraceptive — a birth control pill called Opill — to be available over the counter. That means, soon enough, you’ll be able to find it on the shelf next to the Tylenol — and you won’t need a doctor’s prescription to get it. 

At the same time, here in Arizona, we saw a big change go into effect as well.

The Governor’s Regulatory Review Council gave final approval to a standing order from the state health department that means women will be able to get birth control without a prescription from a pharmacist. That includes the pill, hormonal rings and patches. 

Bré Thomas is the CEO of Affirm Sexual and Reproductive Health, a nonprofit that administers the family planning grant in Arizona. The Show spoke with her about the changes, which she said have "been a long time coming."

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Lauren Gilger, host of KJZZ's The Show, is an award-winning journalist whose work has impacted communities large and small, exposing injustices and giving a voice to the voiceless and marginalized.