A St. Louis judge is weighing whether to grant an order allowing Missouri's only abortion clinic to remain open, a day after abortion-rights protesters were arrested at a state office building.
Judge Michael Stelzer heard arguments Thursday on Planned Parenthood's request for a temporary restraining order that would prohibit Missouri from allowing the St. Louis clinic's abortion license to lapse. It isn't clear when Stelzer will rule. The license expires at midnight.
Missouri's health department cites concerns about patient safety and legal violations. Planned Parenthood says Missouri is ``weaponizing'' the licensing process.
The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that about a dozen protesters were arrested after refusing to leave the building where Republican Gov. Mike Parson has an office. Those arrested included an alderwoman and Planned Parenthood board members.
