In historic reversal, Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade, frees states to outlaw abortion
WASHINGTON — In a historic reversal, the Supreme Court on Friday overturned the landmark 1973 Roe v. Wade decision and ruled states may again outlaw abortion.
The court’s conservative majority said the Constitution does not protect the rights of women to choose abortion and instead leaves these decisions in the hands of state lawmakers.
The 5-4 ruling marks the most significant curtailing of an established constitutional right in the court’s history.
The opinion written by Justice Samuel A. Alito Jr. closely tracks a draft that was leaked by Politico in May.
“We hold that Roe and [the 1992 Planned Parenthood v.] Casey must be overruled,” Alito wrote. “The Constitution makes no reference to abortion, and no such right is implicitly protected by any constitutional provision, including the one on which the defenders of Roe and Casey
You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.
Start your free 30 days