Nebraska judge considers lawsuit over Let Them Grow Act
LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Bans on gender-affirming health care and abortion in Nebraska will remain in place for now as a judge considers arguments made Wednesday.
Lancaster County District Court Judge Lori Maret did not issue a ruling at the hearing.
In a lawsuit filed on May 30, the American Civil Liberties Union of Nebraska said Legislative Bill 574 violates the single-subject rule in the Nebraska Constitution.
“The single subject rule of our constitution is very clear: No bill can contain more than one subject,” said Jane Seu, legal policy counsel with the ACLU of Nebraska.
LB 574, which was signed by Gov. Jim Pillen on May 22, bans gender-affirming surgery for minors.
It also includes an amendment that bans abortion after 12 weeks, with exceptions for rape, incest and medical emergencies.
At the hearing, the Attorney General’s Office said the entire bill falls under one general subject.
“Regulating abortion and transgender care are two matters within one subject, and they’re plainly within public health and welfare,” Assistant Attorney General Erik Fern said.
The ACLU is also seeking a preliminary injunction, which would stop the bans from being enforced while the lawsuit plays in court.
It is unknown when Maret will issue a decision on the injunction or the lawsuit itself.
