Federal Appeals Court Rules That Georgia’s Fetal Heartbeat Bill Can Take Effect

JTN: A federal appeals judge ruled Wednesday that Georgia’s fetal heartbeat law can take effect following a U.S. Supreme Court ruling overturning Roe v. Wade.

In 2019, Georgia lawmakers passed House Bill 481, the Living Infants Fairness Equality Act, commonly called the “Heartbeat Bill.” It would ban most abortions once a fetal heartbeat is detected — usually after about six weeks.

In 2019, U.S. District Judge Steve C. Jones blocked the law because the U.S. Supreme Court had previously upheld Roe v. Wade. In September 2021, an appeals court issued a stay pending June’s Supreme Court ruling in a case stemming from Mississippi that struck down Roe v. Wade.

Following the Supreme Court ruling, Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr asked the 11th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals to reverse the district court decision.

“Since taking office in 2019, our family has committed to serving Georgia in a way that cherishes and values each and every human being, and today’s decision by the 11th Circuit affirms our promise to protect life at all stages,” Gov. Brian Kemp, a Republican, said. “…We have worked hard to increase supportive services for mothers and their children — before, during, and after birth. read more