In Missouri, Republican lawmakers approved a referendum seeking to repeal a recently passed abortion-rights amendment, which was approved by voters six months ago. The proposed new amendment will restrict abortions, allowing them only in cases of rape and incest, and will go to voters in November 2026 unless a special election is called sooner. The Republican-led Senate passed the measure with a 21-11 vote, using procedural tactics to limit debate from Democrats. Following the vote, protests erupted, with demonstrators chanting against the ban.
Alongside the abortion measure, the Senate also approved a repeal of provisions for paid sick leave and cost-of-living increases to the minimum wage, which will become law upon the governor’s signature. This action, conducted two days ahead of the legislative session’s deadline, incited outrage among Democrats, who argued it undermines voters’ decisions. They promised to impede Senate proceedings in the future as retaliation.
Republicans argue that they are providing voters with another chance to decide on abortion policies, confident that public sentiment will shift due to the new exceptions for rape and incest. They emphasize the perceived moral imperative against abortion. Conversely, abortion rights advocates are preparing a vigorous campaign against the new measure, highlighting that it would significantly restrict access compared to the previous amendment.
The proposed ballot language does not explicitly mention the repeal of the abortion-rights amendment, instead suggesting it would enhance safety and parental consent for minors regarding abortions. The current political climate reflects Missouri’s fluctuating abortion policies, especially following the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, which previously led to strict abortion bans in the state.
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