People in Connecticut will now be able to get certain types of birth control at local pharmacies without seeing their doctor first.

Gov. Ned Lamont signed a law Tuesday as part of an effort to improve access to birth control in rural and underserved areas in Connecticut.

“We should be doing everything we can to ensure that patients have access to contraceptives,” Lamont said. “By enacting this law, we are removing barriers that can sometimes prevent women from accessing birth control. This law acknowledges that pharmacists are vital to our medical system and are at the frontline of care for many patients. This medication is safe and effective, and the pharmacists providing it are well-trained to offer the screening and testing required. As long as I am governor, I will do everything in my power to ensure that Connecticut safeguards access to reproductive care.”