Image Source: F5 Magazine
A powerful coalition of reproductive and civil rights groups in Missouri has recently launched a groundbreaking effort to safeguard abortion rights by advancing a constitutional amendment. The proposed amendment aims to enshrine abortion rights and protect other reproductive rights up until fetal viability, which typically occurs around the 24th week of pregnancy. This initiative comes in response to the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade in June 2022.
Protecting Reproductive Freedom in Missouri
Missourians for Constitutional Freedom, the spearheading coalition, has carefully selected one proposed constitutional amendment from an original field of 11 options. They have now begun collecting signatures throughout the state with the goal of placing this critical amendment on the 2024 ballot. This move aligns with the broader trend observed across various states, where abortion-rights groups have sought constitutional amendments to safeguard reproductive freedom ever since the landmark Roe v. Wade ruling was overturned. Notably, advocates for abortion rights have emerged victorious in all races where this issue has directly appeared on the ballot since the Supreme Court’s ruling.
Ensuring Comprehensive Protection
The proposed amendment for Missouri not only protects the right to abortion but also safeguards a range of reproductive rights until fetal viability. It explicitly allows for exceptions after the 24th week of pregnancy, solely when the life and health of the pregnant person are at risk. The government, as per the amendment, would be prohibited from denying or infringing upon an individual’s fundamental right to reproductive freedom. This right encompasses all decisions related to reproductive health care, including birth control, abortion care, and miscarriage care. Any denial, interference, delay, or restriction of such care would be considered invalid under this proposed amendment.
Balancing Health and Autonomy
After the point of fetal viability, the amendment allows the government to impose restrictions on abortion, but only if healthcare professionals determine that the procedure is necessary to protect the life or physical and mental health of the pregnant person. Such restrictions must align with widely accepted clinical standards and evidence-based medicine, while respecting the autonomous decision-making of the individual seeking care.
Overturning Strict Abortion Bans
Missouri currently imposes one of the most stringent abortion bans in the United States, which came into effect following the overturning of Roe v. Wade. This near-total ban features exceptions for cases where the life of the pregnant person is at risk or during medical emergencies. However, if the proposed amendment successfully passes, it would effectively revoke this law and restore reproductive autonomy in the state.
Unwavering Advocacy for Personal Choice
Tori Schafer, Deputy Director for Policy and Campaigns at the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Missouri, passionately advocates for the amendment, stating, “Passing this amendment will end our state’s abortion ban and make sure Missourians and their families can once again make the decisions that are best for them.” Schafer emphasizes that decisions surrounding pregnancy, including abortion, birth control, and miscarriage care, are deeply personal and private. Reiterating the importance of patient and family involvement, she insists that individuals should retain the authority to make choices that align with their own circumstances.
A Coalition for Change
The Missourians for Constitutional Freedom coalition comprises influential organizations such as Planned Parenthood Great Plains, the political arm of Planned Parenthood in Missouri and neighboring states. Additionally, abortion-rights groups like Abortion Action Missouri join forces in this historic effort. By formally launching their signature-collection campaign, these groups mark the beginning of a new chapter in their ongoing advocacy. After facing legal challenges from Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft, who opposes abortion rights, the coalition emerged victorious in lawsuits related to the proposed ballot language. This success allowed them to select the most promising amendment for advancement.
The Path to Victory
The groups must submit approximately 172,000 valid signatures by May 5 to secure ballot placement in the upcoming elections. If successful, the decision to include the proposed amendment on the ballot would ultimately rest with Governor Mike Parson, a Republican. Regardless of the specific placement date, the coalition remains confident in their path to victory. Notably, the Republican-led Missouri Women and Family Research Fund is also working to place an abortion-rights constitutional amendment on the same ballot this year. Their proposals include adding exceptions for rape and incest to the current abortion ban and allowing abortion care until the 12th week of pregnancy.
Source: F5 Magazine