Louisiana Criminalizes Abortion Pill Possession
Yesterday, Louisiana lawmakers passed a bill criminalizing the possession of abortion medications without a prescription, adding an additional hurdle to the state’s already-substantial restrictions on reproductive care. The bill does not punish women who possess abortion medications for their ownconsumption; instead, it aims to undermine support networks and impose harsh penalties on individuals who smuggle abortion medication within the state. The medications targeted by the legislation – Mifepristone and Misoprostol – are also used to treat miscarriages and hemorrhaging, and will become much more difficult for physicians to prescribe.
Louisiana already has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the country, with only 25% of its hospitals offering maternity care. Hundreds of doctors in the state have signed a letter cautioning that the ban, and warn that it could lead to dangerous medical delays and declining health outcomes. Controlled substances are also tracked by state databases, meaning physicals prescribing either medication could come under increased scrutiny. While the bill has not been enacted, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has indicated his support for similar measures and is likely to sign it into law.
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