South Carolina Supreme Court Affirms 6-Week Abortion Ban

The South Carolina Supreme Court has upheld a six-week abortion ban known as the "Fetal Heartbeat and Protection from Abortion Act." The law, which limits most abortions when early cardiac activity can be detected, allows for exceptions in cases of saving the pregnant woman's life, fatal fetal anomalies, and limited exceptions for victims of rape and incest. Physicians who violate the law could face felony charges and have their license revoked. The court's decision was split, with four justices in favor and one dissenting, citing concerns about women's rights and the burden placed on them. Planned Parenthood criticized the ruling, stating it will cause irreparable harm to the people of South Carolina.