The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a new generic version of the abortion drug mifepristone, drawing criticism from Bishop Daniel E. Thomas, chairman of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on Pro-Life Activities.

“It is jarring and contradictory that, at the same time that the Food and Drug Administration is conducting a much-needed review of the supposed safety of the abortion pill for women, it is nonetheless approving a new generic for this deadly drug,” said Bishop Thomas in response to last week’s reports about the FDA decision.

Bishop Thomas expressed concern over what he described as shortcuts taken by the FDA in its original approval process for mifepristone and subsequent changes to its protocols. He stated: “The FDA took shortcuts in originally approving and loosening protocols for mifepristone, which enabled the killing of more children and placed the health of more women in danger. Even if it eventually had to be approved as a generic version of the same drug, to do so now and make it more available before a recently-announced safety study can be completed and potentially save lives, is a shocking inconsistency. Mothers in need and their preborn children deserve better. They deserve the fullest, most authentic care that we can offer in all respects. I pray that the forthcoming review of mifepristone will undo many of these tragic developments and that we may, instead, meet women with hope and meaningful support.”

The FDA's approval comes while it is also reviewing data related to mifepristone’s safety profile.