Lawsuit Filed Challenging 5 Abortion Laws Passed In Oklahoma This Year

Several organizations have filed a lawsuit, challenging five abortion laws that Oklahoma lawmakers passed earlier this year.

Under the new laws, performing abortions would be considered “unprofessional conduct” and cause a doctor’s license to get suspended.

Additionally, the laws say doctors cannot perform abortions after a heartbeat has been detected, unless the mother’s life is in jeopardy and the people who perform abortions must be a board-certified OB/GYN.

The organizations filling the lawsuit say the laws are unconstitutional.

“The Oklahoma Supreme Court has found time and again that the state legislature’s extreme attempts to restrict abortion are unconstitutional,” said Nancy Northup, president of the Center for Reproductive Rights. “If allowed to take effect, these laws would end abortion access in Oklahoma, forcing patients to travel great distances and cross state lines to get essential health care.

Governor Kevin Stitt said he’s fulfilling his campaign promise to sign every anti-abortion legislation that crosses his desk, and that it’s up to the courts to decide if any get overturned.

The plaintiffs are asking the court to block the laws before they take effect November 1.

The case will be heard in state court.