The Center for Reproductive Rights is suing Louisiana for the state’s attempts to close abortion clinics as part of a shutdown of all services deemed non-essential.
President Nancy Northup says attempting to force clinic closures violates due process and equal protection. She says abortion services are time-sensitive and essential.
“Patients are going to have to delay an abortion for weeks or months, and others may be forced to carry to term during the pandemic or leave the state to get services,” said Northup.
Ohio, Oklahoma, and Alabama have had similar suits filed against them.
Kathleen Pittman, administrator for the Hope Medical Group in Shreveport, says their facility is practicing social distancing and they do not use equipment needed by most hospitals.
“We are and have been abiding by LDH’s health notice, and we have been for the three weeks since it was issued,” said Pittman.
Attorney General Jeff Landry says clinics are non-essential facilities and should not be in operation right now, but Northup says medical experts disagree.
“Both the American Medical Association and the Academy of Obstetricians and Gynecologists have been clear that the Covid-19 Crisis is not a reason to shut down abortion care,” said Northup.
Landry says the abortion clinics are trying to make the argument that the rules do not apply to them.
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