(USNewsMag.com) – The Supreme Court (SCOTUS) has a busy year ahead in 2022. Several hot-button issues are up for debate, and some could result in drastic changes to the US landscape. Three cases on the docket surround issues of gun control, state secrets and abortion and with a 6-3 conservative bench, it’s anyone’s guess how the court will rule.
New York State Rifle & Pistol Association Inc. v. Bruen
Gun control has long been a hot-button issue in the courts. Democrats want more control, while Republicans just want to enjoy their Second Amendment rights. The case of New York State Rifle & Pistol Association Inc. v. Bruen centers around concealed carry in the state of New York. Right now, it’s one of the toughest states in which to get a permit; applicants need to demonstrate a valid reason — other than defending themselves from everyday threats.
The New York State Rifle & Pistol Association is suing, saying the restrictions violate the Second Amendment. The SCOTUS already heard arguments in the case back in November and is expected to hand down a ruling in 2022.
FBI v. Fazaga
This case calls into question the validity of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) of 1978 and if it displaces the state-secrets privilege doctrine, which gives the government permission to withhold information during the course of litigation should the information compromise national security.
At the root of the case is the infiltration of a mosque. The FBI paid Craig Monteilh, an informant, to gather information on Southern California Muslims as part of a counterterrorism investigation called Operation Flex. The Americans who learned about the investigation filed a discrimination suit against the FBI, claiming they were targeted because of their religion and that the bureau carried out illegal searches.
The high court’s decision will determine whether the lawsuit can proceed or if the plaintiffs’ claims should be dismissed.
Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization
This is perhaps one of the most contentious cases on the Supreme Court’s docket this coming year. While oral arguments already took place, the decision is one that the country is waiting to hear with bated breath. At the heart of the issue is the precedent of Roe v. Wade, and it could have far-reaching implications for abortion providers and women, in general.
Currently, the law states women have access to fetal terminations up to approximately the 24-week mark, when doctors generally believe a fetus can survive outside of the womb. The landmark Mississippi case could lower that to 15 weeks. Additionally, the SCOTUS judges will also determine whether restrictive abortion rules prior to a fetus’ viability are, in fact, constitutional.
It’s gearing up to be a powerhouse of a year for the SCOTUS and we’ll be sure to update you on each case as rulings are handed down.
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