The U.S. Supreme Court is gearing up to begin its new term on October 7, with a docket that includes pivotal cases addressing transgender rights, gun regulations, pornography, and flavored vapes, among other issues. This term is expected to significantly shape legal precedents across various contentious areas.
Among the most high-profile cases is United States v. Skrmetti, which will explore the constitutionality of Tennessee’s law banning certain medical treatments for transgender minors. This law, SB1, prohibits puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones, and gender-transition surgeries. The Biden Administration and various advocacy groups contend that this ban violates the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment, as it allows medical interventions for other conditions while excluding those for gender dysphoria. Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti defends the law, asserting it protects minors from irreversible treatments.
In Garland v. VanDerStok, the Court will examine the Biden Administration’s regulations on ghost guns—untraceable firearms that can be assembled from kits. This regulation aims to combat the rising use of ghost guns in crimes but has faced backlash from gun owners and manufacturers, who argue it oversteps the ATF’s authority. A prior ruling by a federal appeals court raised concerns that a decision against the regulation could exacerbate gun violence.
Another significant case, Free Speech Coalition v. Paxton, will determine the legality of a Texas law requiring age verification for pornographic websites. Proponents argue it protects minors from harmful content, while critics assert it infringes on First Amendment rights and poses privacy risks. The law’s fate has already seen mixed rulings in lower courts, highlighting its contentious nature.
The Supreme Court will also assess the FDA v. Wages and White Lion Investments case, which evaluates the FDA’s decision to deny marketing authorization for flavored e-cigarettes. The agency argues these products contribute to rising vaping rates among adolescents, while a prior court ruling deemed the FDA’s actions arbitrary.
In the realm of corporate accountability, the Court will hear Meta’s appeal regarding the Cambridge Analytica scandal, which involves allegations of misleading shareholders about data privacy risks. Additionally, the Court will consider NVIDIA v. E. Ohman J, focusing on the standard of intent required in securities fraud cases, particularly regarding allegations about the company’s ties to the cryptocurrency market.
As the Court faces growing scrutiny over issues like undisclosed gifts to justices and partisan decisions, it remains under pressure to uphold transparency and impartiality. A July 2024 Pew Research survey revealed that only 47% of Americans view the Court favorably following a term marked by significant rulings, including those on abortion rights and gun control. The upcoming cases are poised to further shape public perception of the judiciary.