Federal appeals court allows Texas to block most abortion procedures amid coronavirus pandemic

A federal appeals court on Tuesday ruled that Texas can block most abortion procedures amid the coronavirus crisis.

Republican Gov. Greg Abbott last month issued an executive order blocking non-essential medical procedures in an effort to save hospital space and needed supplies for health care workers amid the pandemic.

The order applied to a a variety of procedures, including abortions "not medically necessary to preserve the life or health of the mother," according to state Attorney General Ken Paxton.

The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals on Tuesday issued a 2-1 decision upholding the abortion restrictions.

The case could continue on to the Supreme Court, or those challenging the Texas order could seek for the appeals court to reevaluate the case with more judges involved.