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For Immediate Release
Contact: Mai Shiozaki, 202-628-8669, ext. 116; cell 202-641-1906

Justice Department's Appeal of Judge Korman's Ruling on Plan B is a Step Backwards in Women's Health

WASHINGTON

The Justice Department's decision to appeal of Judge Korman's ruling to make Plan B available over the counter to all ages is a step backwards for women's health. Millions of women need access to this safe and effective product, and the prevention of unwanted pregnancy, particularly in adolescents, should not be obstructed by politicians. Study after study has proven that emergency contraception, like Plan B, is a safe and effective method of preventing unwanted pregnancies.

Less than a week ago, President Obama was applauded when he addressed members of Planned Parenthood and spoke about the organization, "one core principle has guided everything all of you do - that women should be allowed to make their own decisions about their own health." President Obama should practice what he preaches. NOW calls on the Obama administration to stop this appeal and make Plan B One Step available to women and girls of all ages without a prescription, and without identification.

The National Organization for Women (NOW) is the largest organization of feminist activists in the United States. NOW has 500,000 contributing members and 550 chapters in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.