In a significant development for reproductive health in Missouri, Planned Parenthood has been ordered by the state’s Attorney General, Andrew Bailey, to cease dispensing abortion pills.
Bailey’s order, released last Wednesday, cited concerns about compliance with state regulations related to the treatment of complications from chemically induced abortions.
He pointed out that about 4.6% of women who undergo chemical abortions end up needing medical attention, emphasizing the importance of having a valid treatment plan in place for potential complications.
In his letter, Bailey stated, “Missouri law requires you to adopt an approved plan to treat complications when using any chemical ‘in which more than 1 percent of the drug or chemical required surgical intervention after its administration.’”
He claimed that Planned Parenthood had not provided an approved plan for such situations.
Additionally, Bailey alleged a history of legal violations by Planned Parenthood, mentioning that physicians from the organization have admitted, under oath, to breaching several regulations, including those related to informed consent and instrument sterilization.
Sue Liebel, the State Affairs Director for Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, praised the Attorney General’s action, calling it a necessary response to the alleged unsafe practices at Planned Parenthood clinics.
Liebel pointed to previous claims of using unsanitary equipment and failing to properly engage parents in the care of minors, reinforcing the pro-life perspective on the matter.
Bailey had previously signaled his intention to issue the cease-and-desist order, setting a deadline for Planned Parenthood to respond to his concerns.
He asserted that the organization has continuously neglected the safety and health of women in Missouri, even as existing legal frameworks to protect them have been weakened.
In response, Planned Parenthood Great Rivers criticized the order, labeling it a “political attack” that lacks legitimacy.
They argued that Bailey’s claims are misleading, highlighting that they had already submitted their complication plans in February and were still awaiting approval from state authorities.
The abortion provider issued a statement expressing their willingness to comply with regulations but emphasized the absence of a timely response from the Department of Health and Senior Services regarding their submitted plans.
Furthermore, they criticized Bailey for threatening disciplinary actions while their compliance efforts were still pending.
This order comes in the wake of a recent report from The New York Times that raised eyebrows about the conditions at various Planned Parenthood clinics across the nation.
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