Pharmacists in Illinois will not face punishment for refusing to sell abortion-inducing drugs.

The state has declined to appeal a ruling protecting pharmacies that choose not to sell the drugs based on their religious objection.

A lower court first blocked a state mandate forcing the sale of the morning-after pill in 2005.

A court of appeals affirmed the ruling, stating Illinois law "prohibits discrimination in licensing."

The two pharmacies argued that the government can't force companies out of business based on religious beliefs.