An emergency contraception vending machine has been installed on the third floor of the Otter Student Union across from the meditation room and began operation Aug. 24.
Each dose costs $10 payment through credit card, and no identification is required for purchase.
Emergency contraception, commonly known as the morning-after pill, works by preventing ovulation and, therefore, fertilization when taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex. More information is available through Planned Parenthood.
“The main motivation for bringing the vending machine to CSUMB came about when an anonymous donor approached us offering to purchase the vending machine to facilitate student access to low cost emergency contraception,” said Gary Rodriguez, health promotion and prevention manager at CSUMB.
The installation also aligns with California Assembly BIll 2482, which requires California Community Colleges, California State University campuses and University of California campuses to establish wellness vending machines that dispense health products, including discounted emergency contraception.
CSUMB’s machine was announced on Instagram on Aug. 31, and has posted flyers around campus to increase awareness.
There are currently no plans to install additional wellness vending machines on campus. Students seeking other health care services and resources can visit the Campus Health Center.