Missouri Judge Approves Ballot Language to Ban Most Abortions
A recent ruling by Cole County Circuit Judge Daniel Green has cleared the way for a proposed ballot measure in Missouri. The measure targets the state’s abortion laws and was put forward by Secretary of State Denny Hoskins.
Judge Approves Ballot Language for Abortion Amendment
On Tuesday, Judge Green determined that the language proposed by Hoskins meets the requirements to appear on November ballots. This was the second revision allowed under newly enacted Missouri legislation aimed at streamlining the ballot language process.
Details of the Proposed Amendment
The amendment, which is identified as Amendment 3, does not explicitly state that it would ban most abortions in the state. Instead, it specifies conditions under which abortions would still be permitted, including:
- Medical emergencies
- Fetal anomalies
- Rape
- Incest
The complete ballot language includes provisions aimed at ensuring:
- Medical care for emergencies, ectopic pregnancies, and miscarriages
- Safety standards for abortion procedures
- Parental consent for minors seeking abortions
- Repeal of Article I, Section 36, enacted in 2024
- A ban on sex-change procedures for minors
Hoskins characterized the judge’s ruling as a positive outcome for both the law and for Missouri voters. He emphasized that the process ensures voters can cast their ballots without undue influence from outside entities.
Contention from ACLU of Missouri
The ACLU of Missouri plans to challenge the ballot language and has expressed concerns regarding transparency and clarity. Tori Schafer, the organization’s director of policy and campaigns, argued that the summary does not adequately inform voters that this amendment would infringe upon reproductive rights previously established.
Context of the Amendment
This ballot measure aims to overturn Amendment 3, which was adopted by voters in 2024. This earlier amendment granted the right to abortion and removed nearly all state restrictions on the procedure. In response to ongoing legal challenges, Judge Jerri Zhang had ruled to block many of Missouri’s existing abortion limitations, restoring legality to the procedure.
Critics of the new wording argue it misleads voters by suggesting their capacity for abortions would be newly established under the amendment. Additionally, the proposed changes would institute a permanent prohibition on transgender healthcare for minors.
Conclusion
The approved ballot language reflects ongoing debates over abortion rights in Missouri. If successful, this amendment could significantly alter the state’s legal landscape regarding reproductive and transgender health rights.
