Following months of gathering signatures, filing petitions, and navigating lawsuits, constitutional amendments designed to protect or expand abortion rights are set to appear on the general election ballot in 10 states. These states include swing states like Arizona and Nevada, blue-leaning states like Maryland and New York, as well as red-leaning states like Florida and South Dakota. Voters in these states will have the opportunity to directly decide the future of abortion access this fall.
The proposed amendments vary from state to state, aiming to enshrine abortion rights or expand access to abortion care up until fetal viability. For example, in Arizona, the proposed amendment would establish a “fundamental right” to an abortion up until the 24th week of pregnancy. In Colorado, the amendment would formally recognize the right to abortion and prohibit the government from denying or impeding access to abortion care.
The amendments in Missouri, Montana, and Nebraska would protect abortion rights up until fetal viability and include exceptions for the health and life of the pregnant person. In states like South Dakota and New York, the proposed amendments would legalize abortion in certain trimesters and protect reproductive healthcare autonomy.
Overall, these proposed amendments reflect a broader national conversation surrounding abortion rights and access. Voters will have the opportunity to shape the future of abortion policies in their respective states through these ballot initiatives.
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