Doctor Kerlin testifies on ethical obligations and opinions regarding abortion

The Court of Claims hearing for case 24-00001MM, Northland Family Planning Center v. Nessel, took place on April 22, 2025, focusing on the contentious issue of abortion and medical ethics. The session featured significant testimony from Dr. Kerlin, a medical ethicist, who provided his views on the nature of elective abortions.

The proceedings began with a motion to clarify Dr. Kerlin's stance on elective abortions, which he described as not being a medical procedure in his opinion. He asserted that any abortion not necessary to prevent serious harm to a pregnant woman contradicts the ethical obligations of a physician. Dr. Kerlin emphasized that he believes abortion providers are responsible for ending the lives of innocent human beings, stating, "anyone who kills an innocent human being, including abortion providers, is killing an innocent human being."

The discussion further delved into Dr. Kerlin's ethical responsibilities as a medical professional. He affirmed that it is essential for medical ethicists to address ethically charged issues like abortion, maintaining that personal ethical commitments should not be disregarded in the practice of medicine. This assertion was supported by his previous testimony, where he reiterated that physicians should not check their ethical beliefs at the door.

The hearing highlighted the ongoing debate surrounding abortion rights and medical ethics, with Dr. Kerlin's testimony reflecting a strong anti-abortion stance. The implications of this case could have significant effects on the legal landscape surrounding reproductive rights in Michigan. The court proceedings will continue as both sides present their arguments and evidence in this pivotal case.