Texas Judge Suspends Mifepristone Approval
U.S. District Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk suspended approval of mifepristone, making sales of the pill illegal in the U.S. while a legal challenge proceeds. A conflicting Washington state ruling blocks changes to pill sales in 17 states. In January, the FDA made a regulatory change allowing retail pharmacies to offer abortion pills for the first time, but many states have since limited sales.
Legal Support for Pill Manufacturers and Pharmacies
The White House discusses ways to provide legal support to manufacturers and retail pharmacies. Options include backing legal challenges through the U.S. Department of Justice and offering legal advice on continuing pill dispensation. The DOJ is also seeking an emergency stay at the Texas border.
Companies Involved in Discussions Remain Unclear
It needs to be made clear which companies are involved in the discussions. Major U.S. manufacturers of abortion pills include GenBioPro Inc and Danco Laboratories, while pharmacy chains dispensing the pills include Walgreens, CVS Health Corp, and Rite Aid Corp.
White House Strategy Calls Focus on Washington State Relief
White House strategy calls have focused on the "immediate, short-term" relief offered by the conflicting order from Washington state. The administration believes this ruling grants more time to respond legally to Texas's final decision and mobilize activists and supporters ahead of the 2024 presidential elections.
Biden Administration to Fight Texas Ruling
President Joe Biden and Vice President Harris announced they would fight the Texas ruling. The legal battle is expected to work through multiple levels of appeals courts over months or years before resolution. The administration seeks an emergency stay of Kacsmaryk's order from the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.
