Costco refuses to sell abortion pills, citing lack of demand

In August 2024, Costco announced that it would not be stocking the abortion medication mifepristone in its more than 500 pharmacies in the United States. This decision was made amid a pressure campaign from conservative and religious groups urging the company to avoid dispensing the drug, which is used in medication abortions. The conservative group Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) claimed success in influencing Costco’s decision, although the retailer did not explicitly attribute its choice to the campaign. Instead, Costco explained that its position was based on what it deemed a lack of demand for the medication among its members, stating that patients typically receive mifepristone through medical providers rather than pharmacies. Both CVS and Walgreens, which do carry the drug, have faced similar pressure from right-wing groups and even threats of legal action from conservative attorneys general who argue that dispensing mifepristone may violate the Comstock Act. Key lawsuits have arisen, claiming that certain pharmacies should not be allowed to distribute the medication. The Biden administration’s Department of Justice, however, has clarified that the Comstock Act cannot apply to the shipment of abortion pills as long as no illegal intent is established by the sender. Amid mounting legal complexities, conservative groups have indicated their plans to focus their efforts against CVS and Walgreens, increasing their campaign targeting these retailers, while framing Costco’s decision as an important moral stand. Costco's announcement has drawn a range of reactions, with pro-life advocates celebrating the decision as a victory, whereas pro-choice advocates and several public figures denouncing it as disappointing and short-sighted. Critics argue that the move potentially undermines vital access to necessary medications for individuals experiencing abortions or miscarriages, especially during a time when medication abortion accounted for a significant percentage of all procedures within the formal U.S. healthcare system. The decision has raised questions regarding potential impacts on abortion access, particularly in states where rights are becoming more restrictive. As many conservatives express gratitude to Costco for refraining from stocking abortion pills, opponents echo their concerns over the implications of restricting access to mifepristone, especially as health care continues to evolve and adapt to new demands and legal battles. This ongoing tension between access to reproductive health resources and conservative pressures illustrates a broader struggle in American society regarding reproductive rights and pharmacy practices.