DocketBreeze

Planned Parenthood South Atlantic, Et Al. vs. State of South Carolina, Et Al.

2024-000997 The case was appealed to the South Carolina Supreme Court, which granted pro hac vice admissions for several attorneys, set a condensed briefing schedule, and heard oral arguments. The Court issued an opinion affirming the lower court's ruling, interpreting the Act to prohibit most abortions after detection of cardiac activity at about six weeks. The case was remitted back to the lower court. Filed Jun 12, 2024

This case involves an appeal by Planned Parenthood South Atlantic, Dr. Katherine Farris, and Taylor Shelton challenging the enforcement and interpretation of South Carolina's 2023 Fetal Heartbeat and Protection from Abortion Act (S.B. 474), which bans abortion after detection of a fetal heartbeat, typically at approximately six weeks of pregnancy. The appellants seek reversal of the denial of a preliminary injunction, arguing the statute is ambiguous, unconstitutionally vague, and causes irreparable harm. The appellees, including the State of South Carolina and Attorney General Alan Wilson, support the Act's constitutionality and seek to uphold the lower court's decision.

Document details

05.14.2025-Dispositional Decision - Opinion.pdf

Document type
Order
Title
Opinion No. 28280
Summary
The court has confirmed that abortions are mostly not allowed once a fetal heartbeat is detected, around six weeks of pregnancy. This means the current law restricting abortions after this point remains in effect.
Filing date
Tuesday, 13 May 2025