SALEM, OR --  Representative Knute Buehler's (R-Bend) legislation allowing women to purchase birth control without a doctor's visit has passed out of a Senate committee.

The legislation would allow birth control to be sold behind the counter at local pharmacies without a physician visit or a prescription.

The contraceptives would still be covered by insurance. Representative Buehler believes this  bill will reduce unintended pregnancies and improve women's health.

The bill now goes to the Senate floor for a full vote.