Catholic Medical Association v. Department of Health and Human Services et al.

Why this Matters 

The plaintiff alleges that federal guidance interpreting the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA) violates the Administrative Procedure Act, the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, and the First Amendment’s Free Exercise Clause. The guidance clarifies that EMTALA requires certain health care providers in every state to offer abortion care as a stabilizing treatment in emergency situations. 

Potential Impact 

Clear guidance on EMTALA obligations, especially to health care providers in states with an abortion ban, can help ensure that pregnant women receive the emergency treatment they need when their health or life is in jeopardy. Without clear guidance, health care providers may be even more cautious about offering emergency abortion care until a woman’s life is at risk, leading to chaos and confusion and increasing the risk of dangerous complications.