Doctors From Missouri’s Last-Remaining Abortion Clinic Won’t Have To Testify At Trial, Judge Rules
On Saturday, the state served subpoenas to four doctors and physician trainees who worked at the Planned Parenthood clinic, compelling their testimony in court. In his ruling, Judge Michael Stelzer said because of the limited scope of the hearing the testimony of the four doctors would not be relevant to the issues before the court. The hearing starts this morning.
The Associated Press:
Hearing To Consider Fate Of Lone Missouri Abortion Clinic
The fate of Missouri's only abortion clinic is at stake in a hearing scheduled for Wednesday in St. Louis. Circuit Judge Michael Stelzer will hear testimony in a hearing on Planned Parenthood's request for a preliminary injunction that would keep open its abortion clinic in St. Louis. Missouri's health department last week declined to renew the clinic's license to perform abortion procedures, citing concerns about patient safety, including allegations of "failed abortions" and legal violations. Clinic leaders say the allegations are part of an effort by an anti-abortion administration to eliminate the procedure in the state. (Salter, 6/5)
The Hill:
Missouri Judge Throws Out State Subpoenas In Planned Parenthood Case
A judge in St. Louis ruled Tuesday that four doctors who trained at Missouri's only abortion clinic will not have to testify in an ongoing case that will determine if the facility can continue providing abortions. Circuit Court Judge Michael Stelzer ruled Tuesday that complying with the subpoenas to testify filed by the state would cause an undue burden for the doctors. (Hellmann, 6/4)
CNN:
Missouri Abortion Case: A Judge Could Soon Decide If State Will Have No Abortion Clinics
Outside the St. Louis courthouse, a group of anti-abortion activists silently protested Tuesday, with "LIFE" written on tape covering their mouths.
If the Planned Parenthood clinic is forced to stop providing abortions, Missouri would be the first state in the nation to block the procedure in more than 45 years. (Yan, 6/4)
St. Louis Public Radio:
Court Rules Doctors Don't Have To Testify In Planned Parenthood License Case
Colleen McNicholas, an attending physician and OB-GYN at the clinic, called keeping the clinic open a “day-to-day” fight. She called the subpoenas to doctors unnecessary abuse from anti-abortion state regulators. “Planned Parenthood is also relieved that doctors in training will not have to come to court and face the unwarranted harassment we’ve long said is inappropriate,” McNicholas said. “We look forward to another day in this fight.” (Fentem, Davis and Hundsdorfer, 6/4)
