Costco has opted not to dispense the abortion pill mifepristone, a decision that has pleased faith-based activist groups. The retail giant said the move was based on a lack of consumer demand, rather than political pressure.
Last year, New York City Comptroller Brad Lander urged Costco to seek certification to dispense mifepristone, following the example of CVS and Walgreens. However, a religious coalition later wrote to the company urging it not to sell the drug, citing health risks and concerns over birth rates.
In a statement, Costco said: 'Our position at this time not to sell mifepristone...is based on the lack of demand from our members and other patients, who we understand generally have the drug dispensed by their medical providers.' The company has not responded to requests for further comment.
Critics of the decision, including Lander, called it 'disappointing and short-sighted', arguing that it isolates customers and undermines the company's credibility. In contrast, the Alliance Defending Freedom praised Costco for 'doing the right thing', while other faith-based groups celebrated the move as a 'win for America'.
CVS and Walgreens, which both dispense mifepristone, have reaffirmed their commitment to providing access to the drug in states where it is legal. The Supreme Court unanimously upheld access to mifepristone last year, as nearly two-thirds of US abortions are medication abortions.
