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Today’s Big Story

OTC Birth Control Pill Approval Now in FDA’s Hands

A panel of advisors to the FDA unanimously recommended that the agency approve an over-the-counter birth control pill. If approved, Porigo will sell the pill under the brand name Opill.

Why it matters: Opill will be the first non-prescription birth control pill available in the United States. About 45% of women experienced at least one barrier to reproductive health care services in 2021 and increasing access was a resounding theme among the FDA advisor panel.

Yes, but: FDA scientists raised concerns whether women could safely and effectively take the pill without the supervision of a healthcare provider. They argued that women may not take it at the same time every day, which is necessary to prevent pregnancy. And that women with breast cancer might fail to realize the pill is dangerous for them to take. However, doctors on the panel said the pill is “as safe as many other OTC medications” and that the “risks of unwanted pregnancy are greater than the risks of putting this pill out over-the-counter.”

Moving forward: The FDA typically follows the recommendations of its advisory committees however, it isn’t required to. A decision is expected sometime this summer.

Little Stories

Business & Economy

*Mortgage rates dropped fractionally after the Fed suggested there could be a pause in interest rate hikes, which caused a 10% spike in applications to refinance home loans.

*Airbnb stock fell 10% on news that the company expects “unfavorable” booking numbers during the summer as travel season heats up. The company’s founders lost a combined $3.5 billion in net worth from Wednesday’s crash.

World

*A Russian brigade abandoned their position in front-line Bakhmut and allowed Ukraine to recapture territory. Russia has suffered heavy losses in the months-long effort to control the Ukrainian city.

*Palestinian militants fired hundreds of missiles into Israel from Gaza in retaliation for Tuesday’s airstrikes that killed 21 Palestinians, including three Jihadist leaders and at least 10 civilians.

US News, Politics, & Government

*Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed an immigration bill into law on Wednesday that strengthens his migrant relocation program and limits social services for immigrants that don’t have permanent legal status.

*U.S. Republican Rep. George Santos plead not guilty on Wednesday to 13 federal charges that allege he duped donors, stole from his campaign, and lied to Congress about being a millionaire.

Sports & Entertainment

*West Virginia basketball coach Bob Huggins keeps his job after using two anti-gay slurs during a radio show on Monday. Huggins agreed to a million dollar salary cut, a three game suspension, and sensitivity training.

*Country singer Morgan Wallen postponed shows on Tuesday for six weeks due to a vocal cord injury.

Science, Health, & Tech

*Google announced a new Google Maps feature called Immersive View, which will allow users to see their routes in 3D. The technology is supposed to make it easier to visualize where you need to travel.

*Women should get mammograms beginning at 40, which is 10 years earlier than previously advised according to advice from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. They also recommend getting screened every other year.

Extras

*Your soap could be making you more attractive to mosquitos.

*A possible meteorite crashed through the roof of a New Jersey home.

*10 essential travel products according to flight attendants.