Pharmacies across Illinois are now required to post signs indicating that pharmacies must dispense prescribed contraceptives—including the morningafter pill—without delay. The legislation was spearheaded by Gov Rod Blagojevich. The signs, which are placed in about 2700 pharmacies, instruct patients that, if the pharmacy dispenses contraceptives, the pharmacist must fill the prescription right away.

If the contraceptive is out of stock, the pharmacist and the patient's physician can decide on a suitable alternative. Patients also can choose to pick up the contraceptive later or have the prescription transferred to another pharmacy. The signs have a toll-free telephone number and a state Web site address to register a complaint with the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.