Abortion clinic act gutted by unexpected ruling; federal judge says sincere religious belief may permit enjoined blocking of access

Article Abstract:

A federal district judge ruled in US v. Lynch that there was a sincere religious belief defense to liability under the Access to Clinic Entrances Act of 1994. Abortion rights supporters fear the ruling will encourage protesters and result in more violence, thus diminishing the impact of the law. Statistics from the National Abortion Federation show a 21% decrease in violence at US abortion clinics in 1996, but a 137% increase in verbal harassment.

Defense (Criminal procedure), Abortion services

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NOW abortion victory assailed; defense lawyers say new use of RICO could hurt nonabortion protesters

Article Abstract:

A Chicago jury found anti-abortion groups liable under the RICO, and this novel extension of the racketeering law by NOW, the plaintiff in the suit, might also be used against other organized protest groups. Critics counter that RICO can damage the First Amendment and that it was meant to be used against drug cartels, organized crime and white collar criminals.

Usage, Pro-life movement, National Organization for Women, Civil RICO actions

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