🚨 BREAKING NEWS: Lawsuit Challenges Louisiana Law Classifying Essential Medications as Controlled Substances 🚨

Today Oct 31st, a group of dedicated birth workers, medical professionals, advocates, and community members have taken a stand for accessible, life-saving healthcare in Louisiana by challenging Act 246, which classifies the medications mifepristone and misoprostol as controlled substances. These medications, used not only for safe abortion but also critical care in postpartum hemorrhage, miscarriage management, and more, are now restricted under a law that threatens immediate access for those in need.

"Access to safe, timely care is essential to reducing maternal mortality, especially for Black women, who face the highest rates of life-threatening complications," shared a Birthmark Doula Collective plaintiff. This restrictive law endangers lives and amplifies health disparities, especially in a state already grappling with maternal health inequities.

Among the voices in this lawsuit are advocates Nancy Davis and Kaitlyn Joshua, who experienced firsthand the confusion and fear Louisiana’s restrictive laws create. Davis was denied medical care during a fatal fetal anomaly and had to travel 1,500 miles for proper treatment. Joshua faced denial of basic prenatal care amid the legal chaos caused by abortion restrictions.

Michelle Erenberg, Executive Director at Lift Louisiana, shared, "We refuse to let anti-abortion lawmakers make pregnancy more dangerous in Louisiana."

Let’s make it clear: restricting these medications is reckless, discriminatory, and creates an environment of fear and surveillance for those seeking care. This lawsuit is a vital step toward protecting the health, rights, and safety of all Louisianans.

🔗 Read more and stand with us in the fight for health equity!

 
 
 

On Sunday, April 30th, Birthmark Doula Collective was featured on an episode of 60 Minutes, highlighting the state of Maternal Health in Louisiana.

 

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