Commission Reaffirms Commitment to Safeguarding Medication Abortion Access During Continued Court Challenges

(SACRAMENTO, CA) – The California Commission on the Status of Women and Girls reaffirms an unwavering commitment to protecting access to essential reproductive health care in light of the U.S. Supreme Court’s recent order in Louisiana v. FDA. While the Court’s stay ensures that mifepristone remains available via telehealth for now, the ongoing legal instability surrounding access to this safe, evidence‑based medication continues to create confusion and fear for patients and providers across the nation.

In California, access to medication abortion remains protected, but the ripple effects of national legal challenges reach far beyond state borders. The uncertainty created by conflicting rulings harms patients, strains providers, and disproportionately impacts those already facing barriers to care, particularly women of color, low‑income women, those in rural communities, and individuals who rely on mail delivery, telehealth services, or who face long distances to reach a clinic.

“The Commission will continue to champion policies rooted in science, equity, and bodily autonomy, and we will oppose any effort that threatens the health, dignity, or rights of women and girls. We stand with survivors, patients, and the medical professionals who provide safe and effective reproductive health care every day, with an unshakeable commitment to ensuring that every person can access the care they need,” said Executive Director of the California Commission on the Status of Women and Girls Darcy Totten.

This ruling allows Californians who rely on telehealth services to continue to receive mifepristone. Research has shown that prescribing medication abortion via telehealth is just as safe and effective as an in-person visit to a health center. 

The Commission will continue to monitor developments in this case and remain steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding reproductive freedom in California.

###

For 60 years, the California Commission on the Status of Women and Girls has identified and worked to eliminate inequities in state laws, practices, and conditions that affect California’s women and girls. Established as a state agency with 17 appointed commissioners in 1965, the Commission regularly assesses gender equity in health, safety, employment, education, and equal representation in the military and the media. The Commission provides leadership through research, policy and program development, education, outreach and collaboration, advocacy, and strategic partnerships. women.ca.gov.