Michigan Lawsuit Challenges Abortion Rights Protections
A recent federal lawsuit filed in Michigan aims to challenge portions of the state’s civil rights law that safeguard abortion rights. The lawsuit, brought forth by Right to Life of Michigan and the Pregnancy Resource Center, argues that a 2023 state law extending protections against discrimination related to pregnancy termination infringes on constitutional free speech rights.
The legal action contends that recent legislative changes compel religious and pro-life organizations to employ individuals who may not share their beliefs on human life, violating their First Amendment rights. This lawsuit comes in the wake of Michigan’s political landscape shifting towards supporting abortion rights, following the U.S. Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision.
After the 2022 elections, Democrats gained control of Michigan’s government, leading to the passage of laws expanding abortion rights. The lawsuit filed by the pro-life groups argues that these laws impede their ability to hire employees who align with their mission and beliefs on abortion.
Attorney Brian Neihart emphasized that the First Amendment should protect these organizations’ ability to employ individuals who share their beliefs without fear of government intervention. He highlighted that the state’s employment law mandates coverage for abortion procedures, contradicting the values of these organizations.
The 2023 law in question amends the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act to include pregnancy, childbirth, termination of pregnancy, and related medical conditions within the definition of “sex.” Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s office and the Attorney General’s office have refrained from commenting on the lawsuit, with Attorney General Dana Nessel being a named defendant in the case.
