WASHINGTON The Obama administration on March 16, 2012, released an advance notice of proposed rulemaking, taking the next step in making modifications to its contraceptive coverage policy. An open comment period will allow organizations and the public to weigh in. As announced in February, the modification will allow institutions like religiously affiliated hospitals and other non-profits to opt out of contributing to the cost of contraceptive coverage for their employees, and instead have insurance companies provide the coverage directly.

The administration also finalized a rule on student health plans, ensuring that college students will have the birth control coverage they need.

"When it comes to contraception, government policies should address women's health needs and ensure that every woman can make her own decisions based on her own beliefs and circumstances," said Sarah Lipton-Lubet, ACLU policy counsel. "Today, the Obama administration continued to stand with American women, taking the next step to ensure that they get the health care coverage they need."

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