WASHINGTON – The Supreme Court is set to hear arguments Tuesday in a case involving a faith-based pregnancy center, First Choice Women’s Resource Centers, and an investigation into their practices. The center is contesting a subpoena from New Jersey’s attorney general, arguing it infringes on their First Amendment rights.
These centers, often called “crisis pregnancy centers,” have become more common, especially after the Supreme Court’s decision in 2022 that returned the authority to regulate abortion to the states. Many states with Republican leadership have since enacted laws supporting alternatives to abortion and encouraging prenatal care.
New Jersey’s attorney general issued a subpoena to First Choice, seeking information about their donors. First Choice argues that this investigation is without merit and that demanding their donor list violates their rights to free speech and association. They initially sought to challenge the subpoena in federal court, but were unsuccessful.
Aimee Huber, the executive director of First Choice, expressed hope that the Supreme Court will rule in their favor. She believes such a ruling would protect similar facilities and deter other attorneys general from actions against pregnancy centers.
New Jersey maintains that First Choice is seeking preferential treatment, noting that they have not yet been compelled to release any records. State attorneys argue that siding with First Choice could lead to excessive litigation challenging state subpoenas.
The American Civil Liberties Union has joined the case supporting First Choice’s free speech argument. Erin Hawley, representing the Alliance Defending Freedom, emphasized the potential harm subpoenas can inflict on advocacy groups, regardless of their ideology.
