Wisconsin Right to Life Responds to SCOTUS Ruling on Abortion Regulation

Earlier this morning, the Supreme Court of the United States released their decision and opinions for June Medical Services v. Russo. In a 5-4 ruling, the court struck down an abortion-related law in Louisiana- which required physicians to have admitting privileges.

“We are frustrated with this ruling. Requiring admitting privileges is common sense and is required in most other medical practices,” shares Kristen Nupson, legislative director of Wisconsin Right to Life. “In fact, in the state of Louisiana, doctors in all other outpatient surgery settings are required to have admitting privileges. This law simply extended that safety requirement to the abortion industry. This law’s intent is not to restrict abortion or create an undue burden; it is to keep vulnerable women safe.”

Chief Justice Roberts, a conservative pick, joined the court’s four liberal justices in the majority opinion. He cited the judicial doctrine of stare decisis in his decision, noting a similar Texas law that was struck down four years ago in Whole Women’s Health v. Hellerstedt, in which he himself dissented.

Heather Weininger, executive director of Wisconsin Right to Life, states, “If the abortion industry really cared about women’s rights, they would support a law that protects the health and ensures the safety of women. We are saddened by the SCOTUS decision today, but the ruling demonstrated the importance of judicial nominations.”

The two justices nominated by President Trump, Kavanaugh and Gorsuch, both dissented.