Gloria Moraga - Political Woman

The Supreme Court appeared sharply divided on whether Idaho’s near-total abortion ban overrides a federal law that protects patients who need emergency care.

This case could determine access to abortions in emergency rooms across the country.

In a lively argument, the justices' questions suggested a divide along ideological lines and a possible split by gender on the court. Justice Amy Coney Barrett, a conservative, appeared skeptical that Idaho’s law, which bars doctors from providing abortions unless a woman’s life is in danger or specific nonviable pregnancies, superseded the federal law.

The Supreme Court heard arguments in April, and a decision is expected sometime before July 1, 2024.