A three-judge panel has ruled that Tennessee cannot discipline doctors who provide emergency abortions to protect the life of the mother while a lawsuit challenging the state’s sweeping abortion ban continues.

In an ongoing court case, plaintiffs argue Tennessee's abortion ban is so vague doctors weren't performing medically necessary abortions out of fear.

A three-judge panel ruled Thursday that the limited exceptions outlined in Tennessee’s near-total abortion law are so vague that doctors have a legitimate fear of prosecution or professional discipline for performing medically necessary abortions.