Senator Josh Hawley, a Republican from Missouri, has requested a criminal investigation into a left-wing group, Plan C. He claims the organization operates as a central hub for distributing abortion pills to states where they are banned. His letter to Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche calls for the Justice Department’s involvement.
Hawley describes Plan C as a ‘dark-money operation’ facilitating the shipment of abortion drugs into states with restrictions. The senator argues that the group’s actions justify a federal criminal investigation.
The issue extends to states such as Florida, Oklahoma, and Texas. Hawley asserts that Plan C connects women with foreign clinics and online vendors willing to mail abortion pills, bypassing state laws. The organization allegedly lacks prescriptions, proper identification, or medical consultations for these shipments.
Plan C’s website acknowledges that pills from some sources are ‘not regulated or inspected by the US government.’ The website also advises users to use privacy-focused browsers, virtual private networks, and encrypted email to maintain anonymity.
Despite the organization’s warnings that users might face legal issues, it advises individuals to assess their level of legal risk. Hawley emphasizes that Plan C also directs women to providers who prescribe pills beyond regulatory limits, up to 14 weeks of pregnancy.
The senator highlights potential violations of multiple federal laws. These include statutes related to prescription drugs and the importation of unapproved drugs. Federal conspiracy and aiding-and-abetting laws might also apply.
Hawley has urged a thorough investigation into Plan C’s activities, its connections with manufacturers, and the network supporting these actions.