Proposes a constitutional amendment regarding the right to life
Impact
If passed, this amendment would fundamentally alter the legal landscape surrounding abortion and reproductive rights in Missouri. By defining 'person' to include all stages of biological development from conception, the amendment seeks to challenge existing interpretations of abortion rights as established by previous legal frameworks. The resolution asserts that no law within the constitution secures or protects the right to abortion, likely pushing Missouri towards stricter regulations regarding reproductive health services.
Summary
HJR14 is a House Joint Resolution proposing a significant amendment to the Missouri Constitution, specifically relating to the affirmation of life and the rights of individuals from conception. The resolution aims to repeal Section 2 of Article I of the Missouri Constitution and replace it with a new section that explicitly states all individuals, defined as 'persons', have rights that begin at conception. This amendment reaffirms the belief that government exists to protect the general welfare of people, enshrining a legal definition that includes every human being with unique DNA.
Contention
The proposal has stirred considerable debate among legislators and the public. Proponents argue that it is a crucial step towards protecting life and ensuring that all persons are afforded equal rights from the moment of conception. However, opponents express concerns that this amendment could severely restrict access to abortion services, impair women's health rights, and infringe on personal freedoms. The framing of human rights in this context raises significant ethical and legal questions about reproductive autonomy and women's choices, which are central to the current national conversation surrounding abortion.