Proposed constitutional amendment aims to solidify state’s anti-abortion stance amidst ongoing debate.

A proposal to further entrench Missouri’s abortion restrictions was reviewed on Wednesday by a state Senate committee. Introduced by Republican Senator Mike Moon, the legislation seeks to amend the Missouri Constitution to explicitly state: “Nothing in this Constitution shall be construed to secure or protect a right to abortion.”

Moon advocated for the measure, saying, “Let the voters decide. They will affirm that life is precious and should not be prematurely ended through abortion.”

Missouri already enforces a near-total abortion ban, which came into effect following the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade last year. However, abortion-rights advocates have discussed pursuing ballot initiatives to restore access, though no formal proposals have yet been introduced.

In Missouri, citizens have the power to propose changes to state laws and the Constitution through ballot measures, a process that allows voters to bypass the Legislature. This tool has often been used to address divisive issues or topics lawmakers are unwilling to tackle.

Moon’s proposal would itself require voter approval if it passes the Republican-controlled Legislature before the session ends in mid-May.

Advocates for abortion rights have urged lawmakers to reject the measure. Vanessa Wellbery, vice president of policy and advocacy at Planned Parenthood Advocates of the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri, highlighted the impact of current laws, stating, “We are once again explaining that abortion bans cause devastating harm to patients and communities by denying essential care.”

The proposed amendment is the latest effort by Missouri Republicans to solidify their anti-abortion position, as debates over reproductive rights continue to spark intense political and public discourse.