WASHINGTON (NEWSnet/AP) — The Supreme Court will consider Wednesday whether doctors can provide abortions during medical emergencies in states where restrictions took effect in recent years.

The case comes from Idaho, which is one of 14 states that now ban abortion at all stages of pregnancy with limited exceptions. The Supreme Court is expected to rule by the end of June.

It marks the first time the Supreme Court has reviewed the details of a state ban since Roe v. Wade was reversed in 2022.

The Biden administration argues that even in states where abortion is banned, federal health care law says hospitals must be allowed to terminate pregnancies in emergencies where a patient’s life or health is at serious risk. The Justice Department argues the state’s abortion law conflicts with the 1986 Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act, which requires hospitals that accept Medicare to provide emergency care to any patient regardless of their ability to pay. 

Idaho contends its ban has exceptions for life-saving abortions, but allowing it in more medical emergencies would turn hospitals into “abortion enclaves.” The state argues the administration is misusing the authority a health care law that was intended to ensure patients aren't turned away from emergency care based on their ability to pay.

The Supreme Court has allowed the Idaho law to go into effect, even during emergencies, as the case played out.

Doctors have said Idaho’s abortion ban has already complicated emergency care; as more women whose conditions are typically treated with abortions must now be flown out of state for care.

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