Abortion rights advocates won several key victories in states across the US on Tuesday, while others lost battles that could keep restrictive abortion laws in place. In Missouri, voters approved an amendment that will allow lawmakers to restrict abortions past 21 weeks, but it does not automatically repeal existing bans.
The results represent a mixed bag for abortion rights advocates, who had won all seven statewide ballot measures since the US Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade last year. The most recent outcome in South Dakota was particularly decisive, with voters rejecting an amendment that would have allowed some regulations related to the health of women after 12 weeks.
However, Florida voters rejected a constitutional amendment that would have banned abortion throughout pregnancy, while Nebraska and South Dakota approved measures that will keep their restrictive abortion laws intact. The results mark a shift in the Southern abortion landscape, which has seen a surge in anti-abortion laws since the overturning of Roe v. Wade.
The outcome in Missouri is significant because it sets a precedent for future efforts to overturn existing bans. Advocates say they are heartened by the victory but recognize that more work needs to be done to protect access to abortion care.
Overall, the results reflect the ongoing debate over abortion rights and the complex issues surrounding reproductive health. While some states continue to restrict access to abortion care, others have taken steps to expand it. The outcome of these battles will have a lasting impact on the lives of millions of Americans who rely on reproductive healthcare.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/abortion-ballot-measures-harris-trump-florida-missouri-49c9073cbb6056b66a8a7d0d099795d1