Missouri to Vote on Constitutional Amendment Protecting Abortion Access in November Election

An amendment concerning abortion access in Missouri's constitution has been given the green light to be featured on the state's general election ballot, as confirmed by Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft's office on Tuesday. This significant development paves the way for Missouri voters to have a decisive say on the matter.

Validation of Signatures

Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft, a member of the Republican party, officially verified the submitted petitions, affirming that the initiative had garnered a sufficient number of signatures to qualify for inclusion on the ballot. Furthermore, Ashcroft also provided his endorsement for other proposed initiatives to be featured on the November ballot, encompassing topics such as minimum wage, earned paid sick time, and sports wagering.

Amendment Details

If the amendment secures the electorate's approval, it would result in the modification of the state's constitution to establish the right to make decisions pertaining to reproductive health care. Additionally, it would lead to the elimination of the existing constraints on abortion within the state, while also permitting the regulation of reproductive health care with the aim of enhancing a patient's well-being. Furthermore, it would necessitate the government to refrain from discriminating against individuals seeking or providing reproductive health care. The amendment would also serve to safeguard abortion rights up to the point of fetal viability, typically around the 24th week of pregnancy, with exceptions made to safeguard the life or health of the mother.

The collective, Missourians for Constitutional Freedom, which spearheaded the endeavor to have the amendment included on the ballot, expressed jubilation at the pivotal juncture. The group articulated its elation on a social platform, revealing that an impressive 380,000 signatures had been submitted, in accordance with the stipulated requirements. Rachel Sweet, the campaign manager for Missourians for Constitutional Freedom, conveyed her profound pride in the achievement, emphasizing the historic nature of the ballot measure. She asserted, "I am honored to say that it is our turn to do something that no other state has done before — end a total abortion ban at the ballot box. This November, Missouri voters will have the opportunity to make their voices heard and return decisions about abortion to their rightful place — with women, their families, and their doctors, not politicians."