South Carolina's Supreme Court has made a significant ruling, declaring the constitutionality of a law that protects unborn babies once their heartbeats are detectable, allowing the law to take effect.

This decision overturns a previous injunction that had temporarily halted the Fetal Heartbeat and Protection from Abortion Act, which Governor Henry McMaster signed into law. The injunction had been sought by Planned Parenthood and Greenville Women's Clinic, arguing that the law violated constitutional rights to privacy, equal protection, and due process.

This 4-1 ruling represents a victory for pro-life advocates in South Carolina, who had previously faced a similar law being blocked and ultimately struck down by the state's Supreme Court in January. Notably, the retirement of Justice Kaye Hearn, who had authored the majority opinion against the 2021 law, played a role in this shift, as she was replaced by Justice Garrison Hill.

In the majority opinion, Justice John Kittredge emphasized that the Legislature had determined a compelling interest in protecting the lives of unborn children, especially upon the detection of a fetal heartbeat through ultrasound by qualified medical personnel.

Governor McMaster celebrated this decision as a historic moment for the state, emphasizing South Carolina's commitment to protecting the sanctity of life and its status as a pro-life state in the United States.

Marjorie Dannenfelser, President of SBA Pro-Life America, expressed that this decision aligns with the will of South Carolinians and their legislators who seek to protect unborn babies from abortion procedures and provide support to mothers in need.

Marjorie Dannenfelser, President of SBA Pro-Life America, expressed gratitude to Governor McMaster, Attorney General Alan Wilson, and their supporters for their unwavering commitment to the cause of life. She noted that thousands of lives would now be preserved due to this ruling.

In response to the decision, Planned Parenthood South Atlantic's President, Jenny Black, voiced concerns. She stated that the abortion ban restricts individuals' control over their bodies, compelling many South Carolinians to undergo pregnancies against their wishes.