U.S. Supreme Court Upholds FDA Approval of Mifepristone, Ensuring Continued Access to Medication Abortion
Media Contact:
Eleanor Grano, Communications Manager, Chicago Abortion Fund
Email: eleanor@chicagoabortionfund.org (cc: info@chicagoabortionfund.org)
Phone: 312-219-1611
CHICAGO, IL — June 13, 2024 — This morning, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of the FDA in the case of Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine v. FDA, maintaining access to mifepristone and preserving the availability of medication abortion for the nearly two-thirds of people in the U.S. who rely on it.
While this ruling is a relief, it highlights the ongoing attacks on abortion access across the country. The case was dismissed due to the plaintiffs' lack of standing, but it could return next year with new plaintiffs. Additionally, anti-abortion justices have shown interest in using the Comstock Act to restrict access to medication abortion in the future. The Chicago Abortion Fund (CAF) will continue to push forward and fight to protect and expand abortion access in response to these ongoing threats.
Access to mifepristone is crucial for all of us in Illinois. Although abortion remains protected here, losing access to mifepristone would create additional barriers and obstacles to those seeking abortion care, especially for those living in rural areas. Only 12 of 102 Illinois counties have an abortion provider, and many rely on access to mifepristone via telehealth for medication abortion. Restricting mifepristone would not only burden those traveling long distances for care but also strain free-standing clinics, potentially increasing wait times and reducing access overall.
Chicago Abortion Fund's Deputy Director, Qudsiyyah Shariyf, issued the following statement:
“While we are relieved by the Supreme Court's decision, we recognize this victory is temporary and the fight is far from over.The threat of renewed challenges next year remains real, and we must prepare to defend access to mifepristone and all forms of abortion care. CAF is dedicated to supporting those in need, particularly in our rural Illinois communities. We will never stop fighting until everyone can access the abortion care they need and deserve, no matter their zip code.”
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The Chicago Abortion Fund (CAF) isn't just an organization; we're a movement. For 38 years, we've been tearing down barriers to abortion care in Chicago, the Midwest, and beyond. We're not just providing funding; we're supporting our callers in accessing freedom, dignity, and autonomy.
CAF offers support for clients seeking abortions including procedure funding, travel and related needs like childcare, emotional support and logistical expertise. The organization has relationships with 75+ abortion clinics across 12 states, and supports people nationwide. Since the Dobbs decision, CAF has fielded 20,000 support requests and distributed $6.5 million in direct assistance.