Iowa governor calls special session to consider abortion restrictions

In a rare 3-3 Iowa Supreme Court decision last month, the judges failed to get the majority required to hear the state’s appeal. One judge recused herself because she had previously worked for a law firm that represented an abortion provider listed in the original lawsuit.

The justices explained their votes in writing, but because it was deadlocked 3-3, there was no formal opinion of the court and the statements did not set legal precedent on abortion. All seven justices were appointed by Republicans, but it’s unclear how the court would rule if a similar law was brought to them under different circumstances.

Reynolds said the “lack of action” by the state’s highest court disregards the will of the voters and state lawmakers.

“I believe the pro-life movement is the most important human rights cause of our time,” Reynolds said. “Not only will I continue to fight against the inhumanity of abortion, but I will also remain committed to supporting women in planning for motherhood, promoting fatherhood and parenting, and continuing policies that encourage strong families. These are the most essential building blocks of our society, and they are what will keep the foundation of our state and country strong for generations to come.”

Democrats were critical of the governor’s decision to call a special session.

“Republican extremists, led by Gov. Kim Reynolds, are rushing to take away Iowans’ established rights and personal freedoms,” Senate Democratic Leader Pam Jochum, D-Dubuque, said in a statement.