Just two weeks after the death of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia, the U.S. Supreme Court has heard oral arguments on the biggest abortion challenge in 25 years.
The case tests the Constitutionality of Texas’ common-sense regulations on clinics that provide abortions within their state. In 2013, Texas moved to ensure that clinics had admitting privileges at hospitals, in the event that something went wrong during the procedure. They reasoned, correctly, that abortion providers shouldn’t get a pass on basic state health standards simply to keep them in the market.
While deliberations in this case were likely to take months anyway, the complications arising from Justice Scalia’s death are undeniable. Until a successor to Scalia is confirmed by the U.S. Senate, the Court is likely to be split on many issues, though this isn’t the first time the Supreme Court has had to operate with an even number of justices.
Still, states, including Washington, shouldn’t be in the business of subsidizing inferior care in order to make it easier for abortionists to enter & stay in the market.
We stand with Texas in their fight to protect women from dangerous and negligent practices, and urge Washington’s lawmakers to take similar steps.
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