LAS VEGAS (AP) – A longstanding Nevada law mandating that minors and their parents be notified will not take effect this week following a federal judge’s decision.
This 1985 statute has remained unimplemented in Nevada due to a court ruling that deemed it unconstitutional, particularly in light of Roe v. Wade, the landmark Supreme Court case that recognized abortion as a constitutional right for 50 years.
According to Nevada law, it was poised to expire on Wednesday, following a recent federal court decision that overturned Roe. However, abortion rights advocates filed a lawsuit, resulting in US District Judge Anne Traum issuing a ruling on Friday, stating that the law is not currently enforceable.
Judge Traum indicated that the law could be enacted in Nevada if Planned Parenthood does not submit an appeal within seven days of her ruling. The Associated Press reached out by email on Monday for comments from a Planned Parenthood attorney.
Despite the overturning of Roe, the 40-year-old law remains “unconstitutional and vague,” arguing that it infringes upon minors’ rights to due process and equal protection.
In Nevada, abortion remains legal up to 24 weeks, with exceptions made to protect the mother’s life or health. A voting initiative in November aims to solidify abortion rights in Nevada, having received initial voter approval. For constitutional amendments, the measures must be ratified again by voters in 2026.
As per KFF, a nonprofit focused on healthcare issues, parental involvement is mandated in the abortion decisions of minors in 36 states. While some states only require parental notification, similar to Nevada’s law, others mandate parental consent.
Nevada law does allow minors to seek a court order to obtain an abortion without needing to inform their parents or guardians first.
Source: apnews.com