Louisiana’s 2014 law that requires abortion doctors to have admitting privileges at nearby hospitals went before the U-S Supreme Court today. Loyola University Law Professor Dane Ciolino says this is the first major abortion case for the Supreme Court since President Trump’s appointment of two conservative judges.
“Many people are curious whether the court is going to use this opportunity to re-visit and possibly overrule the landmark 1973 opinion, Roe versus Wade,” said Ciolino.
A ruling is expected in June.
Pro-life advocates say the law ensures the health and safety of the mother. But opponents argue the new regulation would close two of the state’s three abortion clinics. Ciolino on what the justices have to consider.
“Balance the state’s medical interest in imposing the regulation against the burden on women seeking an abortion,” said Ciolino.
Reporters who attended today’s hearing say the court appears divided and Chief Justice John Roberts could be the deciding vote. A federal appeals court in New Orleans upheld the law. Ciolino could see the Supreme Court affirming that ruling, but not overturning Roe versus Wade.
