THE HILL – A state judge in Alaska struck down a law prohibiting anyone other than a licensed physician from performing abortions.
Superior Court Judge Josie Garton ruled Wednesday the law imposed a substantial burden on patients’ fundamental privacy rights to make reproductive health decisions.
The Alaska Supreme Court previously found the right to privacy in the state’s constitution also applies to abortion rights.
Garton said advanced practice clinicians (APCs) such as nurse practitioners and physician assistants are qualified to provide abortion care and treat any complications that may arise.
The decision stems from a 2019 lawsuit brought by Planned Parenthood, which challenged the law that says only a doctor licensed by the State Medical Board can perform an abortion in Alaska … READ MORE.
Wasilla Man Sentenced for Killing Harbor Seal
Monday, May 16, 2022 | For Immediate Release
U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Alaska
According to court documents, Paul Gil, 41, shot at and killed a harbor seal using an AR15-style firearm in the waters of Prince William Sound in October 2017. He then transported the dead seal to his residence where he was photographed skinning the seal.
A National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) biologist identified the animal in the photograph as a harbor seal which is a marine mammal protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. NOAA confirmed that Gil was not authorized to take a marine mammal.
“We are committed to protecting Alaska’s unique and highly vulnerable marine mammal species from illegal takes and exploitation,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker for the District of Alaska.
“The senseless killing of protected species, such as the harbor seal, impacts the viability of its population. Together with our law enforcement partners, we will continue to investigate and prosecute these cases so future generations can see and experience these animals in their natural habitat.”
“Harbor seals are an important part of Alaska’s marine ecosystem,” said Jon Kurland, Alaska Regional Administrator for NOAA Fisheries.
“Shooting seals is prohibited by federal law unless specifically authorized or exempted under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, such as the exemption for non-wasteful subsistence use by Alaska Natives.
“This case was a collaborative effort between the NOAA Office of Law Enforcement, the Alaska Wildlife Troopers, and the National Park Service. I would like to thank our agents and officers and our partner agencies for their contributions to this important case.”
NOAA Office of Law Enforcement investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charisse Arce and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Hattan, NOAA Office of General Counsel, prosecuted the case.
