Texas Judge Hears Case to End Federal Approval of Abortion Pill

In a televised courtroom hearing on Tuesday, a Texas judge heard arguments against the federal approval of medication abortion drugs. The case was brought forth by a coalition of conservative groups who claim that the drugs, which can be taken up to 10 weeks into a pregnancy, are unsafe and should not be approved by the FDA.

During the hearing, the judge questioned the safety of the drugs and hinted at his personal bias against abortion. “I don’t understand how people can take these drugs and not be affected by them,” he said. His comments sparked concern among pro-choice advocates, who worry that his bias will influence his decision.

The hearing comes as conservatives across the country are pushing to block access to medical abortion pills. In California, a group of lawmakers are proposing a bill that would require women to visit a doctor in person in order to receive the pill, effectively limiting access to those who live in rural areas or cannot afford to take time off work to visit a medical provider.

Pro-choice advocates have condemned these efforts, arguing that they are an attack on women’s reproductive rights. “These attacks on medication abortion are part of a larger agenda to restrict access to abortion care and control women’s bodies,” said Nancy Northup, president and CEO of the Center for Reproductive Rights.

The judge’s decision on the case is expected in the coming weeks.