Repeals Art. I, Section 36, the "Right to Reproductive Freedom Initiative"
Impact
If enacted, the repeal of Section 36 could lead to increased restrictions on reproductive health choices in Missouri. The bill outlines that any future laws regulating abortion could be enacted after fetal viability but emphasizes that access must not be compromised if the health of the pregnant person is at risk. However, without the constitutional protection currently in place, there might be broader implications for abortion access and other reproductive health services, potentially allowing for more stringent state or local regulations not currently permitted under the existing constitutional provisions.
Summary
SJR55, introduced by Senator Trent, proposes to repeal Article I, Section 36 of the Missouri Constitution, which is known as the Right to Reproductive Freedom Initiative. This initiative currently guarantees individuals the fundamental right to make decisions about reproductive health care, encompassing prenatal care, childbirth, postpartum care, birth control, miscarriage care, and abortion. As presented, SJR55 aims to amend the constitution to eliminate these protections, thereby affecting reproductive rights in the state significantly. The bill stipulates that the repeal will be put to a vote in the next general election, set for November 2026, or sooner if a special election is called by the governor.
Contention
The repeal of the Right to Reproductive Freedom Initiative is likely to incite significant debate within the state. Advocates for reproductive rights argue that removing these guarantees will infringe upon personal freedoms and negatively impact health outcomes for individuals seeking reproductive health care. Conversely, supporters of the repeal may contend that it allows for more legislative control over reproductive health regulations, citing a need for the government to manage such sensitive issues. This bill represents a critical junction in Missouri's approach to reproductive health and autonomy, emblematic of a broader national conversation surrounding these topics.