Appeals Court Upholds Dismissal of Lawsuit Over Michigan Abortion Rights
The U.S. 6th Circuit Court of Appeals has recently affirmed a lower court’s decision to dismiss a lawsuit filed by Right to Life of Michigan regarding abortion rights. The lawsuit was in response to Proposal 3, which was approved by 56% of Michigan voters in 2022, enshrining abortion rights in the state’s constitution.
Background of the Lawsuit
In 2023, Right to Life of Michigan, along with other plaintiffs, sued Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, and Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, alleging that Proposal 3 violated parts of the U.S. Constitution. The lawsuit aimed to hold the state officials responsible for enforcing the amendment.
Court Rulings
The federal district court dismissed the lawsuit citing a lack of connection between the alleged harms and the state officials. The 6th Circuit Court of Appeals upheld this decision, stating that the lawsuit failed to establish standing.
Reactions to the Ruling
Amber Roseboom, President of Right to Life of Michigan, expressed disappointment in the court’s decision, emphasizing that the focus was primarily on legal technicalities. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel welcomed the ruling, calling the lawsuit a meritless and politically motivated attack on reproductive rights.
As of now, there has been no indication from Right to Life of Michigan and the other plaintiffs regarding a potential appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court.
