Missouri Supreme Court Clears Path for Abortion Rights Amendment on November Ballot

Jefferson City, Mo. (KFMO) - The Missouri Supreme Court has ruled that a proposed constitutional amendment to restore abortion rights will be on the state’s ballot this November. The decision marks a significant step in the ongoing battle over abortion laws, which has intensified since the U.S. Supreme Court ended federal abortion protections in 2022.

The Missouri amendment would enshrine the right to abortion until fetal viability and permit abortions later in pregnancy if necessary for the health of the woman, similar to measures being considered in eight other states. So far, voters in all seven states that have addressed abortion on the ballot since Roe v. Wade was overturned have backed measures supporting abortion rights.

The Supreme Court’s ruling reverses an earlier Circuit Court judgment, with the majority instructing Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft to certify the amendment for the November election. Ashcroft has been ordered to ensure the proposal is presented to voters and take all steps necessary to include it on the ballot.

Missouri now joins a growing list of states where voters are being given the opportunity to directly shape abortion laws. Advocates on both sides of the debate are expected to intensify their efforts ahead of the November vote.