Kansas City, Mo. - Missouri voters will decide whether to overturn a state law that bans abortion at eight weeks of pregnancy in the upcoming November election. Amendment 3, which would repeal the ban, is expected to be a hotly contested ballot measure.
The eight-week abortion ban was signed into law by Governor Mike Parson in 2019. The law was immediately challenged in court, and a federal judge blocked its enforcement in 2020. However, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in June 2022, paving the way for the ban to take effect.
Amendment 3, if passed, would repeal the eight-week abortion ban and restore abortion rights in Missouri. The measure would allow abortions up to 22 weeks of pregnancy, with exceptions for the life or health of the mother.
Supporters of Amendment 3 argue that it is necessary to protect women's health and reproductive rights. They also point to the fact that the ban disproportionately affects low-income and minority women.
Opponents of Amendment 3 contend that it would make Missouri one of the most permissive abortion states in the country. They also argue that it would undermine efforts to protect unborn children.
"Amendment 3 would restore essential reproductive healthcare services to women in Missouri," said Dr. Colleen McNicholas, a practicing OB-GYN. "It is a crucial step towards ensuring that all women have access to the care they need and deserve."
"Amendment 3 is an extreme measure that goes far beyond what the majority of Missourians support," said Father James Book, president of the Missouri Catholic Conference. "It would allow for abortions up until the moment of birth."
The outcome of the November election could have a significant impact on abortion access in Missouri. If Amendment 3 passes, the state would become one of the few in the Midwest where abortion is legal after 20 weeks. If the amendment fails, the eight-week ban will remain in place.
Read also: Pat Mcafee, Chuck Pagano Blast Brian Daboll For Daniel Jones Criticism