Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds has announced her intention to appeal a judge's decision to temporarily halt the state's new abortion law, which bans the procedure after about six weeks of pregnancy. The law, passed by the Republican-controlled legislature and signed by Reynolds last week, took effect briefly before being challenged in court. A judge granted a temporary injunction on Monday, pausing the law while its constitutionality is reviewed.
Reynolds expressed confidence in the law's constitutionality, citing recent shifts in both the Iowa and U.S. Supreme Courts regarding abortion rights. She stated that her team is collaborating with the Attorney General's office to finalize the appeal details and emphasized that it's "just a matter of time." The governor highlighted the three days the law was in effect, claiming it saved lives, and reiterated her belief that the right to life is paramount.
Abortion providers, including Planned Parenthood North Central States and the Emma Goldman Clinic, expressed relief at the temporary block but acknowledged the protracted legal battle ahead. They had previously worked to accommodate as many patients as possible before the law's enactment, anticipating the uncertainty it would create. The ACLU of Iowa, also involved in the legal challenge, affirmed its commitment to protecting abortion access in the state.
The judge's decision hinges on the "undue burden" test, which evaluates whether a law makes it excessively difficult for individuals to exercise their rights. The judge indicated that the abortion advocates are likely to succeed in their argument that the new law violates Iowan's rights under the state constitution using this standard. The state, however, argues that a different standard should apply, citing the government's interest in protecting life.
Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds signs a law banning abortions after six weeks of pregnancy on July 14, 2023, in Des Moines, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
