Full Breakdown
Senator Josh Hawley Calls for Congressional Oversight of Mifepristone Amid Safety Concerns
2/13/2026, 3:21:41 AM
Rising Abortion Rates and Mifepristone's Role
Senator Josh Hawley, a Republican from Missouri, has raised alarms regarding the abortion pill Mifepristone, asserting that its widespread use is contributing to an increase in abortion rates across the United States. Hawley claims that there are now more abortions than when Roe v. Wade was in effect, attributing this rise to Mifepristone, which he describes as being distributed without adequate medical oversight. He emphasizes that the drug is being mailed to states regardless of local abortion laws, often without a doctor's prescription or follow-up care.
Safety Concerns and Legislative Action
Hawley has called for Congress to enhance oversight of Mifepristone, citing a study conducted by the Ethics and Public Policy Center that indicates an 11% adverse health event rate among women using the drug. This study found that nearly 93% of women experienced serious complications such as sepsis or hemorrhaging within 45 days of taking Mifepristone. Hawley criticized the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for failing to conduct a promised safety review of the drug, stating that the agency's inaction has left Congress with no choice but to intervene.
During a recent closed-door hearing with FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, Hawley expressed frustration over the lack of progress on the safety study, which he believes is essential for ensuring women's health. He advocates for "minimal" safeguards, including mandatory in-person doctor visits and screenings for ectopic pregnancies before Mifepristone prescriptions are issued.
Official Statements & Responses
Hawley has stated, “I think we’re at a dead end on this process with the safety review. I just don’t think it’s going anywhere.” He believes Congress must take a more active role in regulating Mifepristone, especially given that 70% of abortions in the U.S. are now performed using this chemical abortion method. He has called for the FDA to reverse a Biden-era decision that allows Mifepristone to be shipped without an in-person consultation.
Criticism & Opposition
Pro-choice advocates and some medical professionals argue that increased restrictions on Mifepristone could undermine access to safe abortion services, particularly in states with stringent abortion laws. They contend that the current regulations are sufficient and that further limitations could lead to unsafe practices.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Hawley cites a significant increase in abortion rates linked to Mifepristone, data from the Society of Family Planning indicates a continuing rise in monthly abortions, suggesting a complex landscape of reproductive health that may not be solely attributable to the drug. The FDA has not provided a detailed response to Hawley's concerns, leaving questions about the agency's future actions regarding Mifepristone.
What's Next
Hawley plans to continue advocating for congressional action on Mifepristone and hopes to outline specific proposals in the coming weeks. As the debate over abortion access intensifies, the future of Mifepristone and its regulation remains uncertain.
