Contraception could soon be free in Quebec — Here's what we know

Could free contraception soon become a reality for people in Quebec?

On the eve of International Women's Day, Québec solidaire (QS) is pushing to make it happen.

QS co-spokesperson Ruba Ghazal confirmed on Thursday, March 7, that she will be introducing a bill to ensure free access to all forms of contraception available in Quebec. QS, which launched a petition in November 2024 that gathered over 100,000 signatures, argues that this initiative would be cost-neutral since improving access to contraception could reduce unintended pregnancies and lower public healthcare expenses.

"As the only woman at the head of a political party in Quebec, I will not be satisfied with the status quo in terms of women's rights and I will fight against setbacks," wrote Ghazal in a press release, urging Premier François Legault to take action. "That is why I am asking François Legault to take another step by making contraception free for everyone. It would save women and even the state a lot of money."

Currently, not all contraceptive methods are fully or partially covered by the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ). However, they are free for certain groups, including people aged 18 and under, full-time students aged 25 and under living with their parents, and social assistance recipients, according to the Fédération du Québec pour le planning des naissances (FQPN).

"The best way to strengthen women's right to choose for their bodies is to offer contraception for free. The main obstacle to contraception is the cost," Ghazal added.

QS's goal is to fully integrate contraception into RAMQ's basket of services. British Columbia and Manitoba have already introduced similar measures in recent years, which Ghazal notes have saved money and improved contraceptive accessibility in those provinces. Once the bill is introduced, it will be reviewed in a parliamentary committee before being put to a vote.

So, while free contraception isn't happening overnight, QS is making moves to push it forward in Quebec.

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