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The Georgia Supreme Court has temporarily halted a ruling that struck down the state’s six-week abortion ban.

Let’s bring you up to speed: Back in 2019, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp signed the “heartbeat bill,” which bans most abortions after a detectable heartbeat, typically around six weeks—often before many women know they’re pregnant. The law faced immediate legal challenges and was blocked by federal protections under Roe v. Wade. However, Georgia’s law took effect after the US Supreme Court overturned Roe in 2022. Those against the law challenged it under the state constitution, arguing it violates the right to privacy, leading to a legal review by the Georgia Supreme Court.

What happened today: Today, the Georgia Supreme Court issued a temporary stay on a ruling that struck down the state’s six-week abortion ban, allowing the law to remain in effect during the appeal process. The stay follows a September decision by Fulton County Judge Robert McBurney, who found the ban violated Georgia’s constitution by infringing on privacy rights, including a woman’s right to make healthcare decisions.

Planned Parenthood reacts: In a statement, Planned Parenthood said, “Devastating news: Georgia’s Supreme Court reinstated a six-week abortion ban — putting the ban into effect just one week after a lower court found it unconstitutional. Georgians deserve better. Every person should be able to get the care they need.”