State Closer than Ever to Putting Emergency Contraception Law on Books
       The House approved a bill last week allowing women access to contraception without a prescription in emergency situations, the first time the legislation has cleared both branches and a signal of a shift to the left under Speaker DiMasi.
       Seven other states allow such contraception dispersal. But an amendment by social conservatives might cause problems in conference committee or more informal negotiations between the House and Senate. The provision makes the proposed law subject to another statute saying no one should have to dispense contraception if that person believes it's morally wrong to do so. The language is mainly designed to address concerns of Catholic hospitals.
       It is unclear whether the governor will sign the bill - he will weigh whether it's a change in the "status quo" on abortion he vowed not to disrupt. He'll also feel the weight of conservative eyes across the nation, many looking for continued signs the governor is far to the right of his home state on social questions as he mulls a bid for the White House.