California AG Rob Bonta sues anti‑abortion groups over pill reversal

California Attorney General Rob Bonta is pursuing a lawsuit against the anti‑abortion nonprofits Heartbeat International and RealOptions Obria. The state alleges the groups falsely promoted "abortion‑pill reversal" – a high‑dose progesterone regimen claimed to undo the effects of the abortion pill – without adequately warning women of risks such as severe bleeding. Bonta said he will use the full force of the law to protect a woman's right to choose.

The case, filed in 2023, has moved through Alameda County Superior Court with both sides completing testimony. Closing arguments are scheduled for September 17, and a judge’s ruling is expected within 90 days. Anti‑abortion advocates argue the scientific validity of the reversal procedure remains unsettled, citing expert testimony and highlighting cases like that of Elizabeth Barrett, who reversed an abortion and later gave birth.

Bonta expressed confidence the court will rule in California’s favor, framing the lawsuit as a defense of women's reproductive autonomy against misleading medical claims.