Judge blocks Idaho abortion ban enforcement

U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill ruled that United States — Idaho's 'Defense of Life Act' and 'Fetal Heartbeat Act', which together create a near-total ban on abortion, violate the due process and equal protection clauses of the 14th Amendment. The ruling prevents the state from prosecuting doctors who perform abortions to protect a pregnant person's health or prevent self-harm. The decision came in a lawsuit filed by Dr. Stacy Seyb, a Boise maternal-fetal medicine specialist, who argued the ban forced patients with serious health conditions to travel out of state for care. United States — Idaho Attorney General Canada — Labrador said he would appeal, expressing confidence the decision would be overturned. The ruling also noted that physicians could still face civil penalties under another state law. Abortion is on the ballot this fall in United States — Idaho and other states, with voters in United States — Idaho, United States — West Virginia, United States — Nevada, and United States — Missouri considering measures related to abortion rights.