Key Supreme Court Cases to Watch in the 2024–25 Term

The 2024–25 term of the United States Supreme Court is shaping up to be one of the most impactful in recent years, with cases that could redefine federal regulations, civil rights, and individual liberties. Beginning on October 7, 2024, the term includes a docket of fewer than 30 cases so far, with several high-profile arguments already underway.

This blog highlights four major cases and explores their significance, alongside a glimpse into other pivotal cases set to shape U.S. legal and societal landscapes.

1. Garland v. VanDerStok: Regulating “Ghost Guns”

Oral Arguments: October 8, 2024

Overview: This case examines whether the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) can regulate gun kits and parts as “firearms” under the Gun Control Act (GCA) of 1968. The regulation aims to address the growing issue of untraceable “ghost guns.”

Background: In 2022, the ATF issued a rule treating gun kits as firearms under the GCA, requiring background checks and serial numbers. A Texas district court issued a nationwide ban on this rule in 2023, upheld by the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.
Implications: A decision favoring the ATF could strengthen efforts to curb gun violence by regulating untraceable firearms. A ruling against the ATF may limit federal authority in addressing firearm-related crimes.

2. Glossip v. Oklahoma: Death Row and Concealed Evidence

Oral Arguments: October 9, 2024

Overview: Richard Glossip, sentenced to death for a 1998 murder, argues for a new trial after discovering prosecutors concealed evidence that their key witness, Justin Sneed, was under psychiatric care.

Background: Glossip’s conviction relies entirely on Sneed’s testimony. Evidence revealed Sneed’s untreated bipolar disorder and methamphetamine use, which could undermine his credibility. Oklahoma’s highest criminal court refused to overturn the conviction.
Implications: A ruling could set a precedent for post-conviction relief in cases involving concealed evidence, reshaping legal standards for capital punishment cases.

3. Medical Marijuana v. Horn: CBD, THC, and RICO Violations

Oral Arguments: October 15, 2024

Overview: Douglas Horn, a commercial truck driver, lost his job after testing positive for THC, despite assurances that the CBD product he used was THC-free. Horn is suing the product’s manufacturers under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO).

Background: Horn argues that the presence of THC in the product caused financial damage, meeting the RICO criteria for “business or property” harm. A lower court dismissed the claim, but the Second Circuit Court of Appeals reinstated it.
Implications: The Court’s decision could redefine the scope of RICO in product liability cases, particularly those involving deceptive labeling.

4. United States v. Skrmetti: Gender-Affirming Healthcare for Transgender Youth

Oral Arguments: December 4, 2024

Overview: Tennessee’s Senate Bill 1 (SB1) bans gender-affirming medical care for transgender minors, including hormone treatments and puberty blockers. The case challenges the law under the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment.

Background: A district court blocked parts of SB1, citing violations of equal protection and due process. The Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals reinstated the ban, prompting an appeal to the Supreme Court.
Implications: A ruling could determine the legality of similar laws nationwide, shaping healthcare rights for transgender youth and the scope of parental decision-making in medical treatments.

Additional Cases to Watch

The Supreme Court’s term also includes other cases with significant potential impact:

TikTok Ban: The Court will hear arguments on whether a U.S. law banning TikTok unless it’s sold violates free speech or trade rights.
Environmental Regulations: Cases involving the EPA’s authority under the Clean Water Act could reshape environmental protections.
Affirmative Action in Workplace Policies: Challenges to corporate diversity initiatives following the Court’s 2023 ruling on college admissions.

Why These Cases Matter

The 2024–25 term touches on key areas of law and policy, including:

Gun Control: Garland v. VanDerStok could shape federal efforts to regulate firearms.
Justice and Fair Trials: Glossip v. Oklahoma raises questions about the integrity of convictions reliant on concealed evidence.
Consumer Protection: Medical Marijuana v. Horn examines accountability in product labeling and its broader implications for consumer rights.
Civil Rights: United States v. Skrmetti addresses the boundaries of state authority in regulating healthcare for transgender youth.

What’s Next?

The Supreme Court is expected to issue decisions on these cases by late June or early July 2025. These rulings will set critical legal precedents, influencing federal and state policies for years to come.

The 2024–25 Supreme Court term includes cases that will have far-reaching effects on gun control, civil rights, consumer protection, and healthcare. As the Court deliberates, the outcomes will shape the nation’s legal and societal framework, underscoring the importance of its role in addressing some of the most pressing issues of our time.

Stay tuned for updates as these pivotal cases unfold.

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