I am writing in response to a letter that claimed the refusal of some pharmacists to fill prescriptions for Plan B emergency contraception is simply an example of free market principles at work ("Plan B refusal policy result of capitalism," Dec. 6). Actually, it's not at all.

In a free market, you do not need permission to purchase medications. In a free market, emergency contraception is available over the counter, as it is in Canada, the United Kingdom and other countries, and has been suggested by the American Medical Association and an advisory committee to the Food and Drug Administration.

Our government has decided to regulate the exchange of this drug, and pharmacists are licensed to act as agents of this policy. It is its job as such to fill prescriptions, not adjust policy.