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Posts published in “Health”

Twelve Democratic-led States File Lawsuit to Expand Access to Abortion Pill Mifepristone in Face of Potential Restrictions

Twelve Democratic-led states have filed a lawsuit in federal court to challenge restrictions on the abortion pill mifepristone, which is used in over half of U.S. abortions. An anti-abortion group in Texas has also filed a lawsuit seeking to restrict access to the drug, leading the Biden administration to prepare for a worst-case scenario. The lawsuit filed by the twelve Democratic-led states aims to ensure that mifepristone and misoprostol remain available to women who need them.

FDA Draft Rules Provide Clarity for Consumers and Producers on Plant-Based Drinks Labeling

The FDA has released draft rules allowing plant-based drinks to label themselves as "milk" and providing voluntary extra nutrition labels to note when the drinks have lower levels of certain nutrients than dairy milk. The rules are open for public comment until April 13, 2021, and will provide clarity for consumers and producers when the final rule is issued.

Governors Unite to Protect and Expand Abortion Rights Across America with the Formation of the Reproductive Freedom Alliance

20 Democratic governors have joined forces to form the Reproductive Freedom Alliance in response to the Supreme Court's June ruling which overturned the right to abortion and gave states broad regulatory authority. 44 states have placed some restrictions on or outright banned abortion, making it more difficult for women to access services. The alliance is a step towards protecting and expanding access to abortion services, sending a clear message that the governors are committed to protecting the right to choose.

EPA Visits East Palestine to Investigate Train Derailment and Address Health and Environmental Concerns

Residents of East Palestine, Ohio are facing health concerns and environmental damage due to a February 3 freight train derailment carrying toxic substances. The EPA is sending its top official to the town and a health clinic has been opened to address residents’ health concerns. Norfolk Southern, the railway company in charge of the train, is working with the EPA to ensure that hazardous materials are properly disposed of and that the environment is not further damaged.

Residents of East Palestine, Ohio Receive All-Clear to Drink Municipal Water After Train Derailment

Residents of East Palestine, Ohio have been given the all-clear to drink their municipal water after a train derailment earlier this month, with tests funded by the railroad operator showing no evidence of contamination. The derailment caused disruption and worry for the community, but the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency's announcement that the municipal water is safe to drink is a welcome relief. The EPA has requested additional testing from Norfolk Southern to ensure the safety of the water.

Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania Receives Treatment for Clinical Depression at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center

Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman has checked himself into Walter Reed National Military Medical Center to receive treatment for clinical depression. Fetterman is the latest in a string of high-profile politicians to seek treatment for depression, including former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama. It is important to seek help if you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, and the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 at 988 to connect with a trained counselor or visit 988lifeline.org.

Sen. John Fetterman Receives Treatment for Clinical Depression at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center

Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., has checked himself into Walter Reed National Military Medical Center to receive treatment for clinical depression. His chief of staff, Adam Jentleson, said that Fetterman has experienced depression "off and on" but only recently became severe. Fetterman's wife, Gisele, thanked the staff at Walter Reed for their "compassion and professionalism" and Fetterman is said to be in good spirits and looking forward to getting back to work soon.