Iowa Judge Temporarily Blocks Six-Week Abortion Ban, Recognizing Respect for Both Sides of the Issue

An Iowa judge has temporarily blocked a new six-week abortion ban from taking effect, pending the court’s final adjudication on the matter. During a hearing on Friday, Polk County Judge Joseph Seidlin refused the request from Planned Parenthood’s lawyer to rule from the bench, saying it would be “insulting” to do so without time to think it over.

The law, which was signed into effect by Republican Governor Kim Reynolds on Friday, will remain on hold while the legal challenge plays out in the court system. Iowa Assistant Attorney General Daniel Johnston argued that the standard for assessing abortion restrictions should be downgraded from the current “undue burden” standard.

In his ruling, Judge Seidlin recognized that there are good, honorable, and intelligent people on both sides of the issue, and that patience and perseverance are also hallmark traits on both sides. He noted that these traits deserve respect.

The court believes it must follow current Iowa Supreme Court precedent and preserve the status quo ante while the legal challenge plays out. The temporary injunction will remain in place until the court’s final adjudication on the merits in this matter.

The issue of abortion has been a contentious one in Iowa, and this ruling is sure to be closely watched as the legal challenge plays out. It is unclear when the court will make a final ruling on the matter.