In a pivotal turn of events, a ruling from a federal judge – appointed by former President Barack Obama, no less – has reinforced North Carolina’s commitment to defending the sanctity of life, much to the chagrin of Democratic pro-abortion advocates.
This decision will permit the majority of a North Carolina law, one that restricts abortions after the twelfth week of pregnancy, to take effect as of this Saturday.
Caitlin Connors, the Southern Regional Director of SBA Pro-Life America, lauded the decision, stating to WRAL-TV, “Today’s ruling is a crucial win for the unborn and their mothers.”
This sentiment rings true for those of us who value the rights of the unborn, and echoes the voices of millions who uphold the principles of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
Despite Planned Parenthood’s vigorous attempts to block the law through litigation, citing “vague and obscure” aspects of the statute, U.S. District Judge Catherine Eagles denied their motion for a temporary restraining order.
This motion was meant to stall the law’s implementation amidst the ongoing legal battles.
Now, one may wonder, why would a judge appointed by Barack Obama rule in favor of a pro-life law?
According to the Charlotte Observer, Judge Eagles affirmed that the bulk of concerns around the wording of the law had been ameliorated through a new bill developed by lawmakers and ratified by Democratic Governor Roy Cooper.
With the necessary clarifications made, including the assurance that the law would not penalize those assisting a woman in obtaining a lawful abortion in another state, Judge Eagles noted, “the ambiguities and First Amendment issues raised by the plaintiffs are unlikely to rise to an unconstitutional level and a temporary restraining order is not necessary at this stage.”
Further, she recognized that amendments to the statute would likely render the plaintiffs’ “vagueness challenges” moot.
The Western Journal notes, “Prior to the new law’s adoption, North Carolina banned most abortions after 20 weeks, according to the Associated Press.” Now, exceptions to the 12-week ban include cases of rape and incest up to 20 weeks and “life-limiting” fetal anomalies up to 24 weeks, along with cases of medical emergencies.
This legislation reflects the will of the North Carolina people, and it passed with a commanding supermajority. “SB 20 reflects the will of the people of North Carolina. We celebrate that babies will be protected at 12 weeks gestation and the state’s record $160 million in funding for parental leave, material support, and many other resources will help women and children in North Carolina,” reiterated SBA Pro-Life America’s Connors.
Lauren Horsch, a spokeswoman for North Carolina Senate leader Phil Berger, welcomed the ruling, stating, “The General Assembly provided the clarity physicians asked for and now Senate Bill 20, including the $160 million in funding for child care access, paid parental leave for state employees, maternal health, and other pro-family measures, will largely go into effect.”
Yet despite these strides towards protecting the unborn and supporting families, Planned Parenthood continues its fight to preserve its business model. As Horsch pointed out, “It’s unfortunate that Planned Parenthood — aided by Attorney General [Josh] Stein — hasn’t given up its crusade.”
