While federal courts decide whether or not to reinsert the feeding tube of Terri Schiavo, a brain-damaged Florida woman who doctors say is in a persistent vegetative state, some campus groups say it could set a precedent for similar cases.

Yesterday, U.S. District Judge James Whittemore heard arguments on the case but did not make an immediate decision or give a time when he would proceed.

Both members of the College Republicans and College Democrats said the issue spans more than just the life of one woman.

"The most important thing in this case is that it's setting a precedent," said Megan Green, College Democrats president. "In a way, this is the first time that Congress is intervening in the life of a person."

Green said she doesn't believe it is the government's right to get involved in the issue.

Larry Frankel, legislative director for the Pennsylvania American Civil Liberties Union, also said the government has already done too much.

"Her case has been thoroughly considered many times by the courts," Frankel said. "And we don't feel it's appropriate to return the decision-making to Congress or the president, when the decision was already made by her husband."

Andy Banducci, chairman of the College Republicans, said the president and Congress have explored every option in the case.

"It's such a sad situation," Banducci said. "I don't think it should be a political issue, but with the intervention of Congress and the outcome of the case, there will be debates on it."

Banducci and Green both said the Schiavo topic has not been discussed at their respective group's meetings since it became a national issue.

"It's such a hot national issue now that any decision [to speak out on the issue] will be criticized," Green said.

Christine Shott, spokeswoman for Sen. Rick Santorum, R-Pa, said the senator fears an innocent life could be taken.

"The focus of the senator's concern is that Schiavo is ensured her rights," Shott said. "And that it's good that the federal courts are getting to look at the case."