NYCLU Responds to Texas Medication Abortion Decision

NEW YORK – Today, a Texas federal judge issued an order blocking the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) approval of mifepristone. This order will take effect in seven days if not successfully appealed by the FDA. Mifepristone is an exceedingly safe medication that has been used by millions of people for abortion and miscarriage care. The decision could severely restrict access to medication abortion for people across the country, despite Americans’ overwhelming belief that abortion is a fundamental right.

In response, New York Civil Liberties Union Executive Director Donna Lieberman issued the following statement: 

“This is an appalling decision. Restricting access to mifepristone is not based in medical science or legal precedent. This is all about an anti-abortion, extremist agenda that is hell bent on outlawing abortion in every corner of the country. Pulling approval of a drug that has been shown time and time again to be safer than Tylenol has nothing to do with safety. It is a direct attack on the health, wellbeing and reproductive autonomy of women and it places pregnant people at risk.

“Let’s be clear: abortion care is still broadly available here in New York and the NYCLU is working hard to ensure that New Yorkers know their rights and have the means to access abortion care. Albany lawmakers must lead the country and expand access to reproductive health care in our state. Legislators should pass the Reproductive Freedom and Equity Fund immediately to help providers meet an increased need for abortion care and break down any financial barriers for New Yorkers in need of care, or anyone who is forced to travel here for care. And abortion will be on the ballot in New York in 2024 when New Yorkers will vote on a Equal Rights Amendment that will enshrine abortion rights and gender equality in our state constitution.”

For 23 years mifepristone has offered a safe and effective method for early medication abortion care. Study after study has confirmed its safety and critical role in abortion and miscarriage care.

Read the NYCLU Abortion Access Roadmap here: nyabortionaccess.org