(ABC 6 News) – As part of the White House’s effort to strengthen access to contraceptives across the country, the Gender Policy Council met with college leaders on Dec. 5, 2023 to discuss making birth control more accessible for students.

Solutions include offering contraception during flexible hours and in student common areas easing access.

The council aims to make sure student health centers are stocked with contraceptives allowing same day access for people recently prescribed.

Especially for students and young people in states like Minnesota and Iowa,” said Katie Keith, the deputy director of the Gender Policy Council. “Let’s say make sure you check out some options. Um make sure you understand what the school has available to you.”

College students can face unique barriers to getting contraceptives like the cost of birth control or access to insurance coverage.

An executive order signed by President Biden in June requires private insurers under the Affordable Care Act and certain student health plans to make contraceptives free that are approved by the FDA.