In a significant political development, Missouri’s Republican-controlled legislature has approved a new referendum aiming to repeal the abortion rights amendment passed by voters in November 2024.
This move sets the stage for another statewide vote on abortion rights, potentially in November 2026 or earlier if a special election is called.
Background: Amendment 3 and Its Passage
In November 2024, Missouri voters narrowly approved Amendment 3, enshrining the right to abortion in the state constitution up to the point of fetal viability, generally considered to be around 21 weeks of pregnancy.
The amendment also allows for abortions beyond this point if necessary to protect the life or health of the pregnant individual.
Legislative Action: The New Referendum
On May 14, 2025, the Missouri Senate passed the proposed referendum with a 21-11 vote, following the House’s approval in April.
Republican lawmakers utilized a rare procedural move known as “calling the previous question” to end a Democratic filibuster and force a vote. The new measure seeks to:
- Repeal Amendment 3 from the state constitution.
- Ban most abortions, allowing exceptions only in cases of medical emergencies, fatal fetal anomalies, or instances of rape or incest reported to law enforcement, and only up to 12 weeks of pregnancy.
- Prohibit gender transition surgeries, hormone treatments, and puberty blockers for minors, codifying existing state laws into the constitution.
Public Reaction and Political Implications
The legislative move has sparked significant public outcry. Protesters chanted “Stop the ban!” in the Senate chamber following the vote.
Democratic lawmakers and abortion rights advocates have condemned the referendum as an attempt to override the will of the voters.
Republicans argue that the new measure reflects the values of many Missourians and provides necessary exceptions absent in previous laws.
Timeline of Key Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| June 2022 | U.S. Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade, triggering Missouri’s near-total abortion ban. |
| November 2024 | Missouri voters approve Amendment 3, legalizing abortion up to fetal viability. |
| February 2025 | Abortion services resume in Missouri following a court ruling. |
| May 14, 2025 | Missouri legislature approves new referendum to repeal Amendment 3. |
Missouri’s political landscape continues to grapple with the contentious issue of abortion rights. The approved referendum to repeal Amendment 3 underscores the ongoing debate between legislative actions and voter decisions.
As the state approaches another potential vote, the outcome will significantly impact reproductive rights and related healthcare policies in Missouri.