Tennessee lawmakers accused of being ‘out of touch’ over state abortion ban

Tennessee lawmakers have been accused of being “out of touch” with the experiences of those seeking abortions due to serious medical concerns, as a court heard arguments for a temporary block of the state’s abortion ban.

On Thursday, lawyers for seven women who were denied abortions and two doctors in Tennessee argued for a temporary block of the ban, as the state’s attorneys tried to dismiss the case altogether.

One of the seven patient plaintiffs, Rebecca Milner, said the day’s proceedings had been “physically and emotionally draining” but she was “proud” to have been part of the legal challenge.

Speaking to The Independent after proceedings were adjourned, Ms Milner said: “The point that was made over and over again, is that the impact [of the ban] is different from the intent… Even if we think about the kind of best intent of protecting life, it did not protect my life.

“They were talking today about innocent foetuses. I love my daughter. And she was very much wanted, but my daughter had no chance of life. So yes, I think it is out of touch, and the impact is different than what the supposed intent is.”

Ms Milner said she had been prompted to take action after hearing one Tennessee legislator describe the horrors and the trauma women are enduring in the state as an “inconvenience”.

“It’s appalling and cruel… if you’re describing, wanting to gloss over what people are experiencing as an inconvenience,” she told The Independent.

“When you’re already in a situation that is overwhelming, and traumatic and devastating, why would you make that harder for people? Why step in and say even though I don’t know you and I don’t know the specifics of your case, I am going to legislate from afar and make this worse for you.”

Durin