State legislative leaders in North Carolina are appealing a federal judge’s ruling that struck down some state restrictions on the abortion pill mifepristone. The NC Values Institute and the American Center for Law and Justice have filed briefs in support of Republican lawmakers seeking to have these restrictions restored. The judge’s ruling, issued in June, found that some state laws conflicted with FDA regulations.
The NC Values Institute argued that these restrictions are intended to protect pregnant women and their unborn children, and criticized abortion supporters for attempting to circumvent state laws through federal regulations. The American Center for Law and Justice highlighted the dangers of mifepristone and argued that states have the authority to regulate the drug’s use.
Legislative leaders defended North Carolina’s restrictions on mifepristone, stating that the state has the sovereign authority to protect the health and welfare of its citizens. The case has drawn support from various groups, including the Alliance Defending Freedom.
The ruling by US District Judge Catherine Eagles blocked certain sections of state law related to mifepristone but upheld others that had not been addressed by the FDA. Both plaintiff Dr. Amy Bryant and state Attorney General Josh Stein are expected to file briefs with the 4th Circuit in support of the judge’s decision. The case raises questions about the extent to which states can impose additional requirements on FDA-approved drugs.
Overall, the legal battle surrounding North Carolina’s restrictions on mifepristone continues to evolve, with various groups and individuals weighing in on both sides of the issue.
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