Maine is one of 23 states asking an appeals court to block a ruling by a Texas judge last week to suspend federal approval of a drug used in medication abortions.

Attorney General Aaron Frey joined a multistate coalition urging the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit to delay the effective date of the ruling so mifepristone, one of two drugs used in medication abortions, will remain available beyond Friday.

“We know mifepristone is a safe, time-tested medication that has vastly improved access to abortion care,” Frey said in a statement. “This is a ruling about control — not about safety.”

The drug earned Food and Drug Administration approval more than 20 years ago. Last Friday’s decision by Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas revokes the FDA approval.

Frey and others have filed a brief asking for the decision to be further delayed pending appeal. The coalition includes 23 states and the District of Columbia.

Gov. Janet Mills praised Frey for joining the coalition.

“As the case moves through the courts, my Administration is also evaluating options, including procuring mifepristone if needed, to protect access to medication abortions for Maine women,” Mills said in a statement.

Planned Parenthood of Northern New England said Monday that about 70% of their patients opt for medication abortions, which can be administered up to and through the 11th week of pregnancy.