John,

Right now, mifepristone is the most commonly used method of abortion post-Roe. Over the last 23 years, mifepristone has been used by millions. Used in combination with misoprostol, it is a safe and effective way to end a pregnancy, with a lower rate of complications than other routine procedures, like wisdom teeth removal or colonoscopies. But late in the evening on a holiday weekend, an anti-abortion federal judge blocked the FDA’s approval of mifepristone in a far-reaching and unprecedented ruling that has no basis in science or medicine.

A conservative appeals court has since upheld part of that decision, allowing mifepristone to stay on the market but dramatically decreasing its accessibility by reverting to outdated and unnecessary restrictions that will keep patients from getting the care they need and deserve.

To further complicate matters, this ruling is in direct conflict with the ruling in a separate case out of Washington State, which asks the FDA to ensure mifepristone continues to be available without additional restrictions.

Confused? You’re not alone! Part of the anti-choice minority’s strategy has always been to use disinformation and confusion to discourage pregnant people from seeking abortions, even where it remains legal.

The status of this case is changing by the moment, and it’s heading to the Supreme Court. Here’s what we know remains true:

• Mifepristone is safe and effective
• These rulings cause further confusion and put providers and patients at risk of criminalization
• These rulings will most impact people who live in states where abortion is already criminalized
• These rulings will most impact people of color and people who already struggle to access medical care
• The FDA’s powers include enforcement discretion, which means that the administration can choose to keep mifepristone accessible