This case was absolutely critical, not only to academic freedom, but to the ability of college & university scientists to engage in research without being intimidated by anti-science nuts and made to jump through hoops.

If UVA had lost, we would have seen an avalanche of similar actions against scientists at other universities. Thankfully that is not going to happen.

We can probably expect the anti-science nuts to appeal the decision to the US Supreme Court. But in my opinion it’s likely that the US Supreme Court will reject the appeal without comment, letting the Virginia ruling stand.