AT A GLANCE
Here's a primer on battle over the health care law:
THE LATEST RULING
A divided three-judge panel of the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled Friday that Congress overstepped its authority in approving the so-called individual mandate -- the requirement that requirement that most Americans buy health insurance.
Why it matters
It's the first such decision by a federal appeals court and it's a stinging blow to Obama's signature legislative achievement, as most experts agree the requirement is the foundation for other parts of the law.
other challenges
A federal appeals court in Cincinnati upheld the government's new requirement that most Americans buy health insurance, and an appeals court in Richmond has heard similar challenges to the law. Several lower court judges have issued differing opinions. Meanwhile, an Ohio Supreme Court ruling Friday appeared to clear the way for voters in that state to have a chance to reject parts of the health care law on Nov. 8. But the federal appeals court in San Francisco found that a legal foundation could not file another challenge on the overhaul.
The arguments
For the law: The White House says the legislative branch was using a "quintessential" power -- its constitutional ability to regulate interstate commerce -- when it passed the law.
Against it: Twenty-six states -- led by Florida -- have sued to block the law, claiming the mandate is unconstitutional. The National Federation of Independent Business also has joined the challenge, saying the law would cost small businesses millions.
What's next
Government attorneys will likely ask the full 11th Circuit to review the ruling. The decision sets the stage for a Supreme Court ruling in the next year that could determine the health care law's fate.
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