Currents News Staff
The future of Missouri’s last abortion clinic remains uncertain.
A judge heard arguments on June 4 before deciding the fate of the state’s one and only clinic.
A dispute between the state and Planned Parenthood began in March, when officials refused to renew the clinic’s license.
“There are a number of serious health concerns that still exist at the Planned Parenthood in St. Louis,” said Missouri Republican Senator Mike Parson.
“Every step should be taken to ensure that all laws are followed for safety and well-being of women’s healthcare.”
Last week a judge ruled to temporarily keep the clinic open and operating, citing “immediate and irreparable injury” if it were to shut down.
If the clinic closes, Missouri would become the first state in the U.S. with no abortion clinics or services since the passing of Roe v. Wade.
The case in Missouri is just one in a number of state-wide battles that carry national implications.
“A state with no access to abortion is obviously devastating,” said Dr. Colleen McNicholas from the Planned Parenthood of St. Louis.
She said that as the sole abortion clinic they see about 3,000 Missourians for abortion services a year, and that closing the clinic could have dangerous effects for women.
“It’s really devastating when you think about the impact on their own individual health and the health of their families,” she added.
Missouri has some of the strictest abortion laws in the country, banning abortion at 8 weeks of pregnancy.