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Bill Summary · HB 474

Summary — HB 474: Right to Use Contraception

Main purpose and intent

HB 474 (the "Right to Use Contraception Act") is a short statutory declaration establishing a state policy that the right to use contraception to prevent pregnancy is a fundamental liberty and that the State has no legitimate governmental interest in limiting that freedom. The bill's purpose is to codify protection for contraception use in state law.

Key provisions

  • Adds a new Article (Article 44) to Chapter 90 of the General Statutes titled the "Right to Use Contraception Act."
  • Section 90‑751.1: Short title — the Act may be cited as the "Right to Use Contraception Act."
  • Section 90‑751.2: Legislative declaration — states that:
    • The right to use contraception implicates the fundamental liberty to prevent pregnancy.
    • It is the policy of the State that it has no legitimate governmental interest in limiting the freedom to use contraception to prevent pregnancy.
  • No other regulatory details, funding provisions, penalties, or enforcement mechanisms are specified in the text as introduced.

Who or what would be affected

  • Individuals: People seeking to use contraception to prevent pregnancy would be protected by an explicit state policy statement.
  • State and local government actors: The declaration places a statutory limitation on the State's asserted interests when considering laws or regulations that would limit contraception access.
  • Healthcare providers, pharmacies, insurers, employers and institutions: The bill does not itself create new mandates or direct obligations but could affect how existing or future restrictions on contraceptive provision, coverage, or access are interpreted or litigated.
  • Courts and litigants: The statutory declaration may be cited in litigation challenging laws, regulations, or administrative actions that limit contraception.

Legal and practical implications

  • Declaratory in nature: The bill sets public policy but does not create express private causes of action, specific remedies, or criminal penalties. Its primary effect is to guide interpretation of state law and to provide a statutory statement of the State's interest (or lack thereof) in restricting contraception.
  • Potential to influence litigation and rulemaking: Courts and administrative agencies may consider the statutory declaration when reviewing challenges to contraception-related restrictions; it may strengthen challenges to laws that restrict access.
  • Does not itself establish access mechanisms: The bill does not require insurance coverage, funding, or new programs to increase contraceptive access — it is a statement of policy.

Procedural / timeline information

  • Introduced/Filed: November 12, 2024 (filed with the legislature).
  • First reading / Passed 1st Reading: March 24, 2025 (referred to Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House).
  • Effective date: The Act is effective when it becomes law (no delayed effective date specified).

Limitations / points to watch

  • Because HB 474 is declaratory and concise, its practical effect will largely depend on subsequent judicial interpretation and whether future legislation or administrative rules implement specific access, funding, or enforcement measures.
  • Stakeholders (health systems, insurers, employers, and legal advocates) may evaluate the bill's effect in pending or future litigation concerning reproductive health and contraceptive access.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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