Florida’s abortion waiting period remains in legal limbo

Author: Associated Press
Published:
MGN

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) – Florida’s 24-hour waiting period for abortions is in legal limbo.

A Florida judge blocked the new law a day before it was scheduled to take effect on Wednesday. But state officials then quickly appealed the decision.

That action stayed the ruling by Judge Charles Francis. Attorneys for the American Civil Liberties Union of Florida then asked Francis on Tuesday evening to reinstate his injunction while the appeal moves forward.

But there’s been no ruling so far. The case was transferred to a new judge on Wednesday as part of an annual rotation of judges.

Groups sued after Gov. Rick Scott signed the waiting period into law earlier this month. The groups argued that the law violates the right to privacy guaranteed in the state constitution.

Supporters said the law would create a reflective period that they hoped would change some women’s minds before ending their pregnancies.

Copyright ©2024 Fort Myers Broadcasting. All rights reserved.

This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without prior written consent.