New Order Blocking Abortion Law

New York Times (Feb. 11, 2016): Judge Again Blocks Abortion Law:

A federal judge on Wednesday issued a new order blocking Louisiana from enforcing a law that he says would keep most women from receiving abortions. Lawyers for the state immediately asked the judge, John deGravelles, to stay the order while they appeal it and his Jan. 26 finding that the law is unconstitutional. The law requires doctors who perform abortions to be able to admit patients to a hospital within 30 miles. Supporters say that would protect women’s health. Opponents say it would make it impossible to receive abortions. Judge DeGravelles said in January that of six doctors performing abortions in Louisiana, only two met the requirement, and one of them has said he would quit if the law is enforced. The judge said forcing the other five doctors out of their clinics would leave about 70 percent of the women who want abortions unable to get one.