Marjorie Dannenfelser - President, Susan B. Anthony Pro Life America | Official website

The South Carolina Supreme Court has upheld the state's heartbeat law, marking the third legal defeat for Planned Parenthood in its challenge against this legislation. The ruling supports the protection of unborn children, a key issue for pro-life advocates.

Planned Parenthood contested the law by questioning the scientific understanding of fetal development, specifically regarding when a fetal heartbeat begins. The organization argued that a heartbeat starts at nine weeks, contrasting with their previous website information stating that a basic beating heart develops during the fifth and sixth weeks of gestation. Additionally, Planned Parenthood Action Fund claims that a heartbeat does not begin until around 17-20 weeks of pregnancy.

Caitlin Connors, Political Director at SBA Pro-Life America, expressed satisfaction with the court's decision. Prior to the oral arguments, the South Carolina GOP had circulated a letter affirming support for the heartbeat law. Signed by SCGOP Chairman Drew McKissick and National Committeemen Glenn McCall and Cindy Costa, it stated: "Around six weeks’ gestation, a baby’s heart beats around 110 beats per minute. The heart is the baby’s first organ to form and function. Once a heartbeat is detected, a baby has over a 90% chance of surviving to birth."

In addition to this case, South Carolina is involved in another legal battle referenced by the GOP letter: Medina v. Planned Parenthood South Atlantic. This U.S. Supreme Court case concerns whether states can exclude abortion providers like Planned Parenthood from receiving Medicaid funds. The Charlotte Lozier Institute filed an amicus brief earlier this year highlighting Planned Parenthood's focus on increasing its share of the abortion market while reducing other health care services.

Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America represents over one million pro-life Americans who aim to end abortion through political advocacy and promoting pro-life leaders.