/Supreme Court abortion ruling could nullify Mississippi law

Supreme Court abortion ruling could nullify Mississippi law

Monday morning’s ruling by the nation’s highest court was 5 to 3. It declared that a Texas law similar to Texas’ was unconstitutional. Texas passed a law in 2013 that required abortion doctors to be admitted to a local hospital. It also required abortion clinics to comply with the same building standards as ambulatory surgery facilities. The Texas law was passed one year after Mississippi legislators approved a bill that required abortion doctors in freestanding clinics be board-certified OB/GYNs. They also had to have admitting privileges at a hospital. Justice Stephen Breyer, writing for the majority of the court in Whole Woman’s Health, stated that “none of these provisions offer sufficient medical benefits to justify the burdens on access that each imposes.” Each creates a significant obstacle for women seeking previability abortions, each constitutes an undue hardship on abortion access…and each violates Federal Constitution.” The opponents of Mississippi’s law expect that justices will issue an injunction stating that the Texas decision applies only to Mississippi and Louisiana. Both states have appeals pending before the Supreme Court. Mississippi’s law, if it is enacted would apply to Jackson Women’s Health Organization, an abortion clinic in Mississippi. After the admitting privileges law passed, the clinic sued the state, arguing that the clinic would have had to close because no hospitals would allow it admission privileges. Jackson Women’s Health attorneys and Whole Woman’s Health lawyers argued that closing the clinic would violate women’s Roe vs. Wade rights. Today, women all over the country have their constitutional rights affirmed. “The Supreme Court sent a clear message to politicians that they cannot use deceptive methods to close down abortion clinics,” Nancy Northup, chief executive officer of Center for Reproductive Rights. She represented Whole Woman’s Health which is a group representing women’s clinics across the country. She said, “Without doubt, today’s decision is a game changer” in an ongoing assault on women’s rights throughout the country. “This incredible victory renews the promise made by Roe v. Wade to the next generation. We won’t stop fighting until all women have access to the U.S. Diane Derzis, the Jackson clinic owner, said that she was “jubilant” after facing a possible 4-4 tie. Derzis stated that “It is a major victory for women and their family.” Officials from Mississippi who supported the clinic law view the ruling in a different way. Lt. Governor: “The U.S. Supreme Court decision today endsangers the lives of women in Mississippi and across America.” Tate Reeves stated in a press release. “States should be able to protect their citizens by proper regulation of medical care,” said Philip Gunn (R-Clinton). “I am disappointed by the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision. Today’s legislation is intended to protect unborn children and women. Gunn stated that the ruling was a setback for those who believe in human life’s sanctity. To support this work, you can make a regular donation to us today as part of the Spring Member Drive.