PLANNED PARENTHOOD OF THE NORTH COUNTRY NEW YORK
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 15, 2026
Supreme Court Upholds Restrictions on Abortion Pill —
Care Continues in North Country
WATERTOWN, NY — Yesterday, the Supreme Court of the United States stayed the 5th Circuit ruling that restricted access to mifepristone, reaffirming the Food and Drug Administration’s authority and preserving access to this safe, effective, and widely used medication.
While the Court’s decision temporarily blocks politically motivated attempts to impose medically unnecessary requirements on how patients receive mifepristone, including bans on telehealth and mail delivery, we know attacks on this life-saving care will continue.
Mifepristone is one of two FDA-approved medications used to end an early pregnancy and is also a critical part of miscarriage care.
What this means locally:
There are no changes to how Planned Parenthood of the North Country New York
(PPNCNY) is currently providing care in our health centers. Patients can continue to access medication abortion and other services at all PPNCNY locations in compliance with New York State and federal law.
PPNCNY will continue providing care across the region, including in-person services and telehealth options where permitted. Patients can call 1-800-230-PLAN or contact their nearest health center to learn more.
However, limiting access to medication abortion by mail will increase barriers to care — especially for people in rural communities who may face challenges such as long travel distances, lack of transportation, childcare needs, or difficulty taking time off work.
Telehealth has been a critical tool for expanding access to timely, evidence-based care.
In response, Crystal Collette, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood of the North Country New York, said: “This decision allows politically motivated restrictions to remain in place, creating unnecessary barriers for patients — particularly in rural communities like ours. While this ruling is deeply disappointing, our patients should know that care is still available. Planned Parenthood of the North Country New York remains committed to providing safe, compassionate, and evidence-based care to everyone who needs it.”
Mifepristone has been FDA-approved for over 25 years and has been used safely by more than 7.5 million people in the United States.
The North Country supports access to abortion care. According to the Center for
Community Studies’ North Country Resident Opinion Survey, nearly 64% of residents believe abortion is a right that should be protected.
About Planned Parenthood of the North Country New York
Planned Parenthood of the North Country New York provides sexual and reproductive health care throughout the region, including birth control, STI testing and treatment, cancer screenings, and abortion care.
