Applaud Illinois’ New Protections for Reproductive Rights

Illinois has once again shown the nation what it means to stand up for reproductive freedom. Governor JB Pritzker just signed two groundbreaking bills into law — expanding protections for health care providers and ensuring that college students have access to contraception and medication abortion on campus.

Starting in the 2025-2026 school year, public colleges and universities in Illinois with student health centers or pharmacies will be required to offer contraception and medication abortion. This makes Illinois the first state in the Midwest to guarantee this kind of access for young people — joining California, New York, and Massachusetts.

At the same time, Illinois strengthened its shield law to protect health care providers — including licensed midwives and drug distributors — from being punished for providing lawful reproductive care. These protections ensure that doctors, nurses, and pharmacists in Illinois can continue doing their jobs without fear of retaliation from extremist states.

Add your name to applaud Illinois for defending reproductive freedom, protecting providers, and ensuring students can access the care they need.