Show-Me State Times

Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey has issued a Cease and Desist Order against Planned Parenthood facilities in Missouri. The order prohibits these facilities from performing chemical abortions, citing violations of state law. This action is intended to enforce compliance with legal requirements and safeguard the health and safety of women in Missouri.

Attorney General Bailey emphasized that Planned Parenthood has a history of not adhering to state regulations. "Planned Parenthood has a documented history of subverting state law, including failure to file complication reports. This cease and desist letter ensures that basic health and safety standards are met," he stated.

According to Missouri statute 407.095, the Attorney General can issue orders to stop unlawful activities when there is evidence suggesting such actions are occurring or likely to occur. This power is crucial for upholding the law and ensuring public safety.

The FDA reports that over 4.5% of women undergoing chemical abortions face complications requiring emergency care. Despite this statistic, Planned Parenthood has indicated its intention to continue offering chemical abortions without an approved complication plan, as required by Missouri law.

In response to an initial cease and desist notice, Planned Parenthood asserted there was “no reason to believe” they would breach the law again. However, evidence from sworn testimonies and investigations suggests otherwise.

Specific incidents highlight Planned Parenthood's noncompliance with state laws designed to protect women's health:

- Dr. David Eisenberg admitted in a deposition that for 15 years, he and others at Missouri Planned Parenthood facilities failed to file required complication reports because they did not anticipate enforcement.

- In 2018, Dr. Colleen McNicholas acknowledged under oath that legally mandated complication reports were not filed.

- State inspectors shut down a Columbia facility after finding it used moldy medical equipment on patients for months despite being aware of the contamination.

"Planned Parenthood has demonstrated a disturbing pattern of performing abortions without the necessary complication plans, failing to report complications, and willfully violating state law,” said Attorney General Bailey. “It is my duty to enforce the law and protect the lives and safety of Missourians."

Violating this order under § 407.095 RSMo constitutes a felony offense, meaning Planned Parenthood cannot legally perform chemical abortions in Missouri.

A full copy of the Cease and Desist Order sent to both Planned Parenthood Great Plains and Great Rivers is available for review.