Planned Parenthood v. Casey was a landmark 1992 Supreme Court case that upheld the constitutional right to have an abortion while allowing states to impose certain restrictions, as long as they did not place an 'undue burden' on women seeking the procedure. This ruling significantly shaped the legal landscape regarding reproductive rights in the United States and highlighted the growing tensions between feminist movements and the rise of conservative religious groups advocating against abortion.
congrats on reading the definition of Planned Parenthood v. Casey. now let's actually learn it.
The Planned Parenthood v. Casey decision reaffirmed the core holding of Roe v. Wade, allowing states to regulate abortion but prohibiting them from creating barriers that would place an undue burden on women.
The ruling came after a wave of state laws aimed at restricting access to abortion, reflecting the influence of the Religious Right in American politics during the late 20th century.
The decision included provisions that upheld various Pennsylvania laws, such as a 24-hour waiting period and parental consent requirements, while striking down spousal notification requirements.
The case marked a shift in the Supreme Court's approach to abortion rights, indicating a more nuanced balance between state interests and women's rights.
Justice Sandra Day O'Connor played a pivotal role in writing the majority opinion, emphasizing the importance of preserving women's autonomy in reproductive choices.
Review Questions
How did Planned Parenthood v. Casey build upon previous Supreme Court decisions regarding reproductive rights?
Planned Parenthood v. Casey built upon Roe v. Wade by reaffirming the constitutional right to an abortion while also allowing states to impose some regulations. The 'undue burden' standard established in this case created a framework for evaluating state restrictions on abortion access, providing a middle ground between protecting women's rights and addressing state interests in regulating health care.
In what ways did Planned Parenthood v. Casey reflect the growing influence of the Religious Right on American politics during the late 20th century?
Planned Parenthood v. Casey reflected the growing influence of the Religious Right by highlighting how conservative religious groups mobilized to challenge reproductive rights through legislative measures and court cases. The ruling came at a time when numerous states were enacting laws aimed at limiting access to abortion, showcasing how these groups successfully shaped public policy and political discourse around issues of morality and family values.
Evaluate the long-term implications of Planned Parenthood v. Casey for gender politics and reproductive rights in America.
The long-term implications of Planned Parenthood v. Casey have been significant for gender politics and reproductive rights, as it set a precedent that has allowed states to regulate abortion without completely overturning women's rights established by Roe v. Wade. This decision has led to ongoing legal battles over state laws and has empowered conservative movements to continue their efforts to restrict access to reproductive health services, ultimately impacting women's autonomy and healthcare access across the country.
The 1973 Supreme Court case that legalized abortion nationwide, establishing a woman's right to choose based on the right to privacy.
Undue Burden: A legal standard established in Planned Parenthood v. Casey, meaning that states cannot place substantial obstacles in the path of a woman seeking an abortion before fetal viability.
A political movement that emerged in the late 20th century, composed of conservative Christian groups advocating for policies that align with their religious beliefs, particularly against abortion and LGBTQ+ rights.