Some fairgoers may have noticed an airplane-towed banner in the skies reading abortion pills by mail with Mayday Health below, referring to the organization flying it.
The advertising by air has drawn condemnation from Republican Attorney General Russell Coleman, who wrote on social media that activists are breaking the law by "advertising illegal drugs." He went on to say his office would "not tolerate this illegal danger."
It appears abortion activists are flying over Louisville advertising illegal drugs. They are breaking the law.
— Attorney General Russell Coleman (@kyoag) August 29, 2026
Since January, our Office has been investigating mail order abortion pills. We will not tolerate this illegal danger. https://t.co/mBzd8Z9LOC
During the 2026 legislative session, lawmakers introduced a bill that would have criminalized the importation of pills used to induce abortion, among a number of other provisions. Rep. Nancy Tate said this during a press conference announcing that effort.
"The way death-inducing pharmaceuticals are now marketed, distributed, and trafficked has changed dramatically, and Kentucky's enforcement mechanisms have not kept pace," she said.
The bill did not receive discussion in committee or a vote, but co-sponsor T.J. Roberts says lawmakers should revive the effort and close what he called "loopholes" in Kentucky's strict abortion ban.
Mayday Health Executive Director Leo Raisner says banners, like the one seen flying over Louisville, bring attention to avenues for abortion access in states with strong prohibitions.
The Guttmacher Institute, which is billed as a leading research and policy organization committed to advancing sexual and reproductive health and rights worldwide, estimates about 3,400 abortions were provided via telehealth in Kentucky in 2025.