Missouri’s Republican Attorney General Eric Schmitt has stated that abortions performed after the viability of a fetus remain illegal under a new constitutional amendment passed by voters in the state. The amendment, which was approved by voters in August, states that the state constitution does not protect the right to unlimited abortion.
Schmitt’s interpretation of the amendment has raised concerns among pro-choice advocates, who fear that it could be used to restrict access to abortion services in the state. However, Schmitt has maintained that the amendment does not allow for abortions to be performed after a fetus is capable of surviving outside the womb.
The amendment, known as Amendment 3, was heavily supported by anti-abortion groups in the state and was seen as a way to strengthen Missouri’s existing restrictions on abortion. The state already has some of the most stringent abortion laws in the country, including a ban on abortions after 20 weeks of pregnancy.
Pro-choice advocates have vowed to fight against any attempts to further limit access to abortion in Missouri. They argue that the state’s constitution should protect a woman’s right to make decisions about her own body and reproductive health.
It remains to be seen how Schmitt’s interpretation of the new amendment will be implemented and enforced in the state. For now, the debate over abortion rights in Missouri shows no signs of slowing down.
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