LANSING, Mich. — A Michigan Court of Claims judge ruled Wednesday that the state's 1931 abortion ban violates the state constitution, according to a copy of the ruling obtained by ABC News. The ruling permanently bars the attorney general and county prosecutors from enforcing the ban in the state, effectively legalizing abortions in Michigan.
The ruling from Judge Elizabeth Gleicher came as part of a lawsuit brought by Planned Parenthood of Michigan and Dr. Sarah Wallett, the organization's chief medical officer, against Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel and the Michigan state House of Representatives and Senate, challenging the ban.
The ruling found the state's abortion ban unconstitutional as it violates the due process and equal protection clauses of the Michigan constitution and would deprive pregnant women of their right to bodily integrity, autonomy and the equal protection of the law, Gleicher wrote in the order. The court also found that issuing a permanent injunction will cause no harm to the attorney general nor does it adversely affect the pubic interest.
"We are proud to have won this victory on behalf of Michigan abortion providers and the patients who depend on us for care. Today's Court of Claims ruling will ensure that Michiganders can continue to make deeply personal decisions about their health, lives, and futures without interference from state officials," Wallett said in a statement to ABC News.
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