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Committee advances AB 50 to let Medi‑Cal cover FDA‑approved over‑the‑counter birth control without a prescription
Summary
AB 50 would let pharmacists furnish over‑the‑counter hormonal contraceptives using Medi‑Cal without current protocol and prescription barriers; supporters argued it will expand access and equity, opponents did not register formal opposition in committee.
Assemblymember Rob Bonta presented AB 50 to the Assembly Business and Professions Committee as a measure to allow pharmacists to furnish over‑the‑counter hormonal contraceptives and enable Medi‑Cal coverage without the current prescription requirement.
Bonta told the panel that although FDA has approved some contraceptives for OTC use, Medi‑Cal still requires a prescription, creating "unnecessary barriers" for low‑income individuals and people without regular providers. "Prescription requirements cause delays, add administrative burdens, and disproportionately impact low income individuals," he said in support.
Pharmacists and reproductive‑health advocates who testified said AB 50 would simplify access and reduce out‑of‑pocket costs for Medi‑Cal enrollees. Michelle Carriado, a pharmacist, said the current system forces patients to complete lengthy questionnaires and triggers mandatory provider notifications that are unnecessary for safe OTC products. Sally Raffi, a community pharmacist, added the bill would let pharmacists use insurance to make OTC birth control available without cost to patients.
Supporters cited earlier state laws intended to expand pharmacist authority and insurer coverage for OTC methods. Witnesses noted that under existing California law pharmacists may furnish some contraceptives but that Medi‑Cal’s prescription requirement prevents insurance payment for OTC products. The testimony referenced prior legislation requiring health plans to cover OTC birth control without cost sharing.
There were no formal primary witnesses in opposition during the hearing. Committee members offered brief comments in support; the committee reported AB 50 as amended to the Health Committee with a roll call showing the measure out of committee with 14 yes votes.
Why this matters: The measure would remove an administrative barrier that prevents Medi‑Cal patients from using coverage to obtain some OTC contraceptives, potentially improving access in communities with limited primary care availability.
What’s next: AB 50 was reported to the Health Committee for further consideration.
