Press Release: Montana Family Foundation
Montana Supreme Court Hears Oral Arguments on Parental Consent for Abortion Act
Helena, Montana - March 6, 2024 - The Montana Supreme Court convened today for oral arguments in the case Planned Parenthood of Montana v. State of Montana, a pivotal legal battle concerning the Parental Consent for Abortion Act. This Act, enacted in 2013, mandates that a minor girl in Montana must obtain her parent's or guardian's consent before undergoing an abortion procedure. The Act was passed as a result of a Legislative Referendum, LR-120, which was approved by more than 70% of Montana voters back in 2012.
Planned Parenthood of Montana, the Plaintiff in the case, has long challenged the constitutionality of the Act, and after more than a decade of legal wrangling, Judge Christopher Abbott ruled in February 2023 that the Act infringes on the right to privacy for minors. Prior to Judge Abbott's ruling, the Act had been enjoined in district court for more than a decade. The Montana Family Foundation, a dedicated advocate for the sanctity of life, wrote an Amicus brief to support the State's position on appeal, arguing that the district court's ruling ignores and eviscerates fundamental parental rights to direct and assist their children with important medical decisions, including abortion procedures which will terminate the life of an unborn baby.
During today's oral arguments, the Justices of the Montana Supreme Court displayed troubling hostility toward the Parental Consent for Abortion Act. Their line of questioning and demeanor suggested a predisposition against upholding the Act, further highlighting the alarming trend of judicial activism within the Montana judiciary.
President Jeff Laszloffy of the Montana Family Foundation expressed dismay at the apparent bias against the Act exhibited by the Supreme Court Justices. Laszloffy reiterated the Foundation's commitment to defending the rights of the unborn and resisting the influence of a radical judiciary that appears more progressive than the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals.
In light of today's proceedings, Laszloffy called upon supporters of the Montana Family Foundation to remain steadfast in their dedication to the sanctity of life. "We urge our supporters to pray for wisdom and discernment for the Montana Supreme Court Justices as they deliberate on this crucial issue," stated Laszloffy. "Now more than ever, it is imperative that we stand firm in our conviction to protect the unborn and uphold the fundamental principles of life, liberty, and justice."
The Montana Family Foundation will continue to closely monitor the developments in the Planned Parenthood of Montana v. State of Montana case and remain actively engaged in the fight for life-affirming policies in Montana.
