Federal Judge Blocks Alabama from Prosecuting Abortion Travel Assistance

The ruling emphasizes constitutional protections for interstate travel and free speech, setting a potential precedent for similar cases nationwide.

U.S. District Judge Myron Thompson ruled that Alabama cannot prosecute individuals or groups for aiding women in traveling out of state for abortions.
The decision cites violations of the First Amendment and the constitutional right to interstate travel, deeming such prosecutions unconstitutional.
The case was brought by the Yellowhammer Fund and medical providers after Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall suggested aiding out-of-state abortions could be prosecuted under conspiracy laws.
Abortion rights advocates have celebrated the ruling as a significant victory, with potential implications for other states with strict abortion bans.
The Alabama attorney general's office is reviewing the ruling and considering options for appeal, which could escalate the case to higher courts.