Court issues nationwide order blocking distribution of abortion pill by mail
A federal appeals court has issued a nationwide order blocking the distribution of the abortion pill mifepristone via telehealth and mail. The ruling, which takes effect immediately, marks a significant development in the ongoing legal battle over medication abortion access. The case is expected to be reviewed by the Supreme Court.
- ▪The 5th Circuit Court of Appeals in Louisiana issued the nationwide order on May 1, 2026.
- ▪The order prohibits telehealth providers from dispensing mifepristone and blocks pharmacies from distributing it by mail.
- ▪Mifepristone is one of two drugs commonly used in medication abortions.
- ▪The ruling reverses previous FDA guidelines that allowed mail delivery of the drug.
- ▪Legal experts anticipate the Supreme Court will soon take up the case.
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ABC NewsLiveVideoShowsGood Morning AmericaShopGMAInterest Successfully AddedWe'll notify you here with news aboutTurn on desktop notifications for breaking stories about interest? OffOnStream onAppeals court issues nationwide order blocking telehealth distribution of abortion pill mifepristoneThe case is bound for the Supreme Court.ByDevin DwyerMay 1, 2026, 6:42 PM24:52In this March 10, 2025, file photo, Mifepristone and misoprostol are seen at Wyoming's last abortion clinic, Wellspring Center, in Casper, Wyoming.Natalie Behring/Getty Images, FILEThe 5th Circuit Court of Appeals in Louisiana issued a nationwide order Friday barring dispensation of the abortion pill mifepristone by telehealth providers and distribution of the medication by pharmacies and mail.The order takes effect…
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