LANSING, Mich. (WLUC) – More than 300 locations across the state now have free birth control resources available to Michigan families through the Take Control of Your Birth Control program, Governor Whitmer announced Wednesday morning.

These resources include over-the-counter oral contraceptive pills, emergency contraception, condoms, and family planning educational resources. The Governor’s Office said the program, originally announced in Octoberaims to expand access to contraception, support reproductive health and empower Michigan residents to make informed family planning decisions.

“The purpose of this program is to ensure that individuals, regardless of their circumstances, have access to tools that enable them to make their own decisions about their health and their future,” said Michigan General Medical Director Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian. “We appreciate the overwhelming support we have received from organizations who want to help distribute free contraceptive resources to individuals. We want to make sure that people who need and want these tools can easily get them. This campaign reflects the state’s ongoing commitment to ensuring equitable access to reproductive health services.”

Participating locations include community partners, local health departments, MDHHS offices, and federally qualified health centers in every county in the state. Michigan families are encouraged to visit michigan.gov/takecontrol to find an interactive map of participating organizations and learn more about how to access these resources. Emergency contraception, condoms, and over-the-counter oral contraceptives are available regardless of insurance and will continue as long as supplies last.

“Everyone deserves the freedom to make their own decisions about their reproductive health,” said Governor Whitmer. “With more than 300 Michigan locations now offering free contraception, emergency contraception and other essential reproductive health tools, we’re taking steps to make sure all Michiganders have the support they need. Decisions about reproductive health care should be between a woman, her doctor, and her community of trust. In Michigan, we must always protect your fundamental right to control your health and your future.”

In addition to free supplies, Take Control of Your Birth Control will provide Michigan residents with the information they need to continue receiving vital supplies into the future. The initiative provides information on how to use your insurance to get free or lost-cost birth control. For those without insurance, the program offers a guide to applying for coverage through Medicaid and Plan First! program, which provides health care coverage for a variety of family planning services, including birth control, STI testing and treatment.

Launching in 2023, Plan First! is a limited Medicaid benefit that covers family planning services for those who do not qualify for traditional Medicaid. It’s available to people of any age or gender who meet monthly income requirements and are Michigan residents. Increasing insurance coverage for family planning is another way Governor Whitmer has continued to expand access to contraception.

How to apply for Plan First!:

· Apply online at Michigan.gov/mibridges.

· Call 855-789-5610.

· Visit a local MDHHS county office.

For more information on Plan First, visit Michigan.gov/planfirst.

Additionally, open enrollment for health insurance began Friday, November 1st. The Affordable Care Act guarantees coverage of preventive services for women, including free birth control and contraceptive counseling, by nearly all health insurance plans. People in Michigan can buy a health insurance plan until January 15, 2025 by visiting The health insurance market or by calling 800-318-2596.

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