Women’s Rights Advocates Revive Contraceptive Access Bill

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - Women's rights advocates say a 2014 Supreme Court decision could jeopardize access to birth control in Minnesota.

They've revived a bill at the state Capitol to require most companies to include contraception in their health insurance plans' prescription drug coverage. Religious institutions and some corporations would be exempt.

The Supreme Court decision allows some business owners to ignore a law if they object to it on religious grounds. Some say that ruling could allow Minnesota businesses to deny coverage for birth control, vaccines or HIV treatment.

Rep. Erin Murphy says her bill would survive a legal challenge even though it conflicts with the Supreme Court ruling.

The St. Paul Democrat doesn't yet have any support from House Republicans, who control the lower chamber and set its agenda.