Staff Reports
New Jersey is ringing in the new year with a slew of new laws in the health care realm, and boy oh boy are there a lot of changes on the horizon. First up, New Jersey is waving goodbye to the old-fashioned way of getting birth control and saying hello to a bold new era of over-the-counter contraceptives. That’s right, folks – no need for a pesky prescription anymore! Pharmacists will now be able to hand out hormonal birth control like it’s candy on Halloween, and supporters are cheering about breaking down those “barriers to access.”
New year, new health care laws in the Garden State (The Center Square) — The new year signals new laws taking effect in New Jersey, especially in the health care industry. A new law will expand access to contraceptives by allowing pharmacists to dispens…https://t.co/fzxXSOKBoi
— The Black Chronicle (@BlackChron) December 29, 2023
The governor himself, Phil Murphy, is crowing about this “necessary” legislation, claiming it’s all about fighting back against restrictions on reproductive health care. According to him, while other states are throwing up roadblocks, New Jersey is paving the way for “health equity” by making it a breeze to get your hands on contraceptives. Murphy’s all about promoting “ease of access” to birth control, arguing that requiring a prescription is just plain unnecessary and burdensome.
New Jersey is also rolling out the red carpet for veterans with medical know-how, making it a whole lot easier for them to snag jobs as licensed practical nurses. Murphy claims this move is all about showing support for those brave men and women who served our country. According to the governor, these veterans deserve a big ol’ helping hand when it comes to snagging civilian jobs, and recognizing their military medical training is the way to do it. Plus, he’s saying it’ll give the state’s health care system a boost.
The Murphy administration is patting itself on the back for passing not one, not two, but three pieces of legislation aimed at making prescription drugs more affordable. They’re capping out-of-pocket expenses, keeping a closer eye on those pharmacy bigwigs, and shining a big ol’ spotlight on the pharmaceutical supply chain. According to the governor, it’s a “huge step forward” in helping families afford the medications they need.
New Jersey is also stepping up its game when it comes to the Safe Haven Infant Protection Act. They’re expanding it to make it easier for women to safely surrender their babies after giving birth at the ol’ hospital. Murphy is all about providing a “legal, judgement-free” way for folks to give up their bundles of joy, ensuring they get the care they need. He’s making hospitals into safe surrender spots, giving these women an easy way out with no questions asked.
New Jersey is shaking things up in the health care world, making it easier than ever to get your hands on birth control, helping out veterans, and making prescription drugs more affordable.
