Henry W. Skinner v. Lynn Switzer

Summary

Justice Thomas, joined by Kennedy and Alito, dissents from the Court's holding that Skinner may challenge Texas's postconviction DNA statute under 42 U.S.C. § 1983. Thomas argues due process challenges to state collateral review procedures are not cognizable under § 1983 and should proceed via habeas corpus, warning that the majority's approach undermines federal habeas restrictions. Justice Thomas respectfully dissents.