Ninth Circuit Upholds Idaho's Abortion Law

The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals has allowed Idaho to enforce its 'abortion trafficking' law, which criminalizes helping a minor travel out of state for an abortion without parental consent. The law, passed in 2023, was initially blocked by U.S. Magistrate Judge Debora Grasham for being vague and violating free speech. However, the appeals court upheld most of the law, permitting bans on harboring and transporting minors but striking down the prohibition on 'recruiting' as likely unconstitutional. Idaho Attorney General Raúl Labrador praised the decision as a victory for the state's effort to protect minors and uphold the rule of law. The ruling is significant as it is the first law of its kind in the nation, reflecting the ongoing national debate on abortion rights. Critics remain concerned about the law's impact on providing counsel to minors.