"Federal Court Limits Abortion Protections, Escalating Red State Risks and Legal Battles"

A federal appeals court has ruled that Texas doctors are not obligated to perform emergency abortions, despite federal guidance under the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA). This decision challenges the Biden administration's efforts to ensure abortion access in emergencies, following the overturning of Roe v. Wade. Texas law currently criminalizes performing or attempting an abortion, with limited exceptions for medical emergencies and fatal fetal diagnoses. The ruling has significant implications for abortion access and the ability of doctors to use their medical judgment in emergency situations without fear of prosecution.