West Virginia can restrict abortion pill sales, judge rules, despite FDA approval that it’s safe

By LEAH WILLINGHAM
Associated Press

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) — A federal judge has ruled that West Virginia can restrict the sale of the abortion pill. That’s despite federal regulators’ approval of it as a safe and effective medication. U.S. District Court Judge Robert C. Chambers determined Thursday that the near-total abortion ban signed by Republican Gov. Jim Justice in September 2022 takes precedence over approvals from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Chambers dismissed most challenges brought against the state by abortion pill manufacturer GenBioPro, Inc. Chambers will allow a challenge by the manufacturer concerning telehealth to proceed, however. In a statement Friday, GenBioPro CEO Evan Masingill said the company remains “confident in the legal strength” of its case and is considering next steps.