The omnibus budget bill that the Senate passed last night may make low-cost birth control available from campus health centers after a four-year absence.

The bill incorporated the Affordable Birth Control Act, which overturns provisions of a 2005 law that, in the words of Choice USA,

stopped pharmaceutical companies from providing prescriptions at lower than market costs to health clinics and College and University health centers. Previously, companies were supplying schools and safety-net providers with low cost or no cost birth control. As a result of the [Deficit Reduction Act], low income women and college students were forced to pay market price, approximately $40-$50 per month.

The Affordable Birth Control Act was the subject of intense organizing by campus groups, making its passage a victory for students and for student activism.

Quoting Choice USA again, “This is an example of the power we as young people have to make real change that directly impacts our lives. Congratulations everyone!”