Birth control bill passes Mass. Senate

BOSTON (AP) — A bill that supporters say will protect birth control coverage for women is one step closer to becoming law in Massachusetts.

The Massachusetts Senate overwhelmingly passed the bill Tuesday.

The measure includes a provision requiring health insurers to continue offering coverage — without co-payments — for prescription contraceptives regardless of changes in federal policy or any future repeal of the Affordable Care Act.

President Donald Trump issued an executive order last month that would allow employers to opt out of providing birth control coverage by claiming religious or moral objections.

The legislation also mandates coverage for over-thecounter emergency contraceptives without a doctor's prescription.

The Massachusetts House last week on a 138-16 vote approved the bill, which now heads to Republican Gov. Charlie Baker, who is expected to sign the legislation.