McClellan Statement on Fifth Circuit Ruling on Mifepristone

Washington, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) issued the following statement after the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals issued its decision in Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine v. Food and Drug Administration: 

“Despite today’s decision by the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, mifepristone remains available and FDA-approved due to the Supreme Court’s previous stay handed down in April. This decision, however, is dangerous and further jeopardizes reproductive freedom in the wake of Dobbs. 

“Mifepristone has been proven to be a safe and effective abortion medication, and it is disappointing to see this Fifth Circuit’s attempt to roll back access contrary to all of the scientific and medical evidence. While this decision does not have immediate repercussions, it is clear that access to mifepristone and the FDA’s autonomy remain in jeopardy. 

“Americans should be able to make their own decisions about their health care without interference from politicians. Similarly, medical professionals and the scientific community should be able to make decisions about the accessibility of medications without interference from the courts. 

“We must remain vigilant, as these widespread challenges to reproductive freedoms persist. I will continue fighting in Congress to protect the right to choose and ensure Americans have access to comprehensive reproductive health care options.”