Judge Hears Arguments on Abortion Legislation Lawsuit

U.S. District Judge Sarah Evans Barker has heard arguments in a lawsuit challenging sections of a new Indiana abortion law. She promises a ruling before July 1st, when the new law is scheduled to take effect.

Existing Indiana law requires girls under 18 to get the consent of parents or the permission of a judge before having an abortion. The new law would also require judges to consider notifying the girl’s parents, even when denying her that permission. Another provision requires doctors to confirm the girl’s identity.

The ACLU and Planned Parenthood object, saying that’s not required for any other medical procedure.