NCJW Applauds FDA Decision on Plan B Access
April 23, 2009, Washington, DC -- The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) today applauded yesterday’s decision by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to allow 17-year-olds to purchase Plan B emergency contraception without a prescription. NCJW President Nancy Ratzan released the following statement:
"The FDA's decision to instruct the manufacturer of Plan B to make its emergency contraception drug available over the counter to those 17 and older is huge step forward in preventing unintended pregnancies and giving young women control over their own bodies. In deciding not to appeal last month's court order overturning its restriction of Plan B to those 18 and over, the FDA marks the end of a shameful period in the agency's history when ideological considerations were put above science and public health. We are gratified to see FDA cite 'the scientific findings since 2005' from its own Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, instead of burying its own research as it did earlier.
"NCJW worked tirelessly for this result for the last ten years. We look forward to a new day as the FDA also reevaluates its restriction on Plan B for those 16 and younger, as directed by the court. We will continue to work to improve access to contraceptive options and information for all women regardless of their age."
The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) is a grassroots organization of volunteers and advocates who turn progressive ideals into action. Inspired by Jewish values, NCJW strives for social justice by improving the quality of life for women, children, and families and by safeguarding individual rights and freedoms.
Contact:
Emily Alfano
202 296 2588 x5; emily@ncjwdc.org