A coalition of advocates for abortion access are blaming one Democratic state lawmaker for derailing legislation that is designed to expand access to reproductive care in Michigan.
Before being elected to Congress, Mike Johnson tried to shut down an abortion clinic in Louisiana. After Roe v. Wade was overturned, Johnson called it a “historic and joyful” day and later expressed support for nationwide abortion ban. Now, he’s the new Speaker of the House.
Michigan lawmakers want to tear down longstanding legal barriers to abortion access by repealing old state laws that impose waiting periods and limit access to care.
Although these pharmacies dispensing the drug marks a victory for reproductive freedom, a looming Supreme Court case could cut off access to the medication in states where abortion is still legal.
Opill is the first ever birth control pill to be approved for over-the-counter sales. The medication will likely become available at stores and online retailers in the U.S. in early 2024.
Women have suffered through ectopic pregnancies, miscarriages, fetal anomalies, and other complications, but have found it difficult to get the care they need due to restrictive abortion bans.
The 5th Circuit’s ruling maintains mifepristone’s availability for now, but severely limits access in ways that could harm patients seeking abortion care.
