Ohio Right to Life’s Statement on Attorney General Dave Yost and 19 Other Pro-life Attorneys General Abortion Pill Distribution Warning

February 2, 2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE       CONTACT: Elizabeth Marbach
DATE: Thursday, February 2, 2023     PHONE: 614-547-0099 ext. 304

COLUMBUS, Ohio— Today, Ohio Right to Life released a statement regarding the warning sent by 20 Attorneys General, including Ohio’s Attorney General, Dave Yost. The warning was sent to CVS and Walgreens, stating that they could potentially face legal consequences if they distribute the abortion pill, mifepristone, at their locations. 

The letter informs the retail pharmacies of the federal law, 18 U.S.C. § 1461, which “expressly prohibits using the mail to send or receive any drug that will ‘be used or applied for producing abortion,’” stating that the law “could not be clearer.” The Attorneys General go on to say that approval given by the Biden administration to distribute such pills via the mail violates state laws.

Lastly, the letter points out that the risk of coercion is more significant when taken outside a regulated medical facility.

Ohio Right to Life’s President Mike Gonidakis stated, “Ohio Right to Life is thankful for Attorney General Dave Yost and the 19 other Attorneys General who united to not only uphold and protect our state laws but also federal law. This is what true pro-life leadership looks like, and we are proud to stand behind them.” Continuing, “Not only is the lackadaisical distribution of mifepristone via the mail illegal per federal law, but it is also extremely dangerous for women. We have stated since the very beginning that this FDA approval is nothing short of anti-women and prioritizes a political agenda over medical safety. It is time for the Biden administration to prioritize the health and safety of women and children.”

Founded in 1967, Ohio Right to Life, with more than 35 chapters and local affiliates, is Ohio’s oldest and largest grassroots pro-life organization. Recognized as the flagship of the pro-life movement in Ohio, ORTL works through legislation and education to promote and defend innocent human life from conception to natural death.

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