How Abortion Measures in Various States Fared During the Elections

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During the 2024 U.S. elections, voters in 10 states cast their ballots on pivotal measures related to abortion access. These initiatives followed the Supreme Court's 2022 decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, which left reproductive rights in the hands of individual states. The results this year reflect a patchwork of policies as each state navigates its stance on reproductive rights. Here’s a breakdown of each state’s decision on abortion measures and what these results mean moving forward.

States Expanding or Protecting Abortion Rights

In seven states, voters approved measures that protect or expand abortion access. Arizona voters approved Proposition 139, enshrining a fundamental right to abortion up to fetal viability (22-24 weeks) in the state constitution. This move replaces Arizona’s 15-week limit and prevents interference with abortion access prior to viability unless justified by a compelling state interest. Colorado's Amendment 79 passed, adding abortion rights to the state constitution and lifting prior restrictions on public funding for abortions. This measure also paves the way for expanded access, particularly for low-income residents, by potentially covering the procedure under Medicaid and for state employees. Maryland voters confirmed a constitutional amendment guaranteeing reproductive freedom. This vote solidifies Maryland as a regional access point for abortion, especially crucial as nearby states impose tighter restrictions.

Missouri voters approved Amendment 3, granting a constitutional right to abortion until viability and overturning a previous ban with no exceptions for rape or incest. This measure marks a significant shift toward increased protections for reproductive healthcare providers and patients alike. In Montana, voters approved Ballot Issue 14, which enshrines the right to abortion in the state constitution through fetal viability. This new measure reinforces existing legal protections and restricts governmental interference with abortion access. Nevada passed Question 6, beginning a two-step process to amend the state constitution to protect abortion rights up to viability. This measure must return for a final vote in 2026, but it signals Nevada’s commitment to preserving reproductive rights. New York’s Proposal 1, known as the Equal Rights Amendment, was approved. While not directly mentioning abortion, it expands protections against discrimination related to reproductive healthcare, pregnancy, and gender identity, thereby safeguarding abortion access.

States Upholding Restrictions on Abortion

While several states voted to protect abortion rights, others decided to maintain existing restrictions. Florida’s Amendment 4, which would have enshrined abortion rights up to viability, failed to achieve the 60% voter approval needed. With this result, the state’s strict six-week ban remains in place, highlighting Florida’s shift away from its historical role as a regional access point. In South Dakota, Constitutional Amendment G—which proposed reintroducing abortion access with certain regulations—was rejected. As a result, the state retains its near-total ban, allowing abortion only when necessary to save the mother’s life. 

Meanwhile, Nebraska voters faced two competing measures: one to restrict abortion access and another to establish abortion rights. The state approved the restriction measure, enshrining a 12-week ban in the state constitution, while the measure to expand access was rejected. Nebraska’s ban includes exceptions for rape, incest, and medical emergencies.

The Path Forward for Reproductive Rights

The outcomes of this election indicate a continued national divide on abortion. While seven states moved to protect or expand access, three chose to uphold or introduce restrictions. This year's ballot measures underscore the significant influence that state-level votes now have on reproductive healthcare following the end of Roe v. Wade. As abortion measures continue to appear on ballots nationwide, advocates on both sides are likely to intensify their efforts. For states where restrictions remain, abortion rights supporters will likely seek new paths to challenge these limits. In states with expanded access, opponents may pursue future amendments or legislative efforts to restrict the right to abortion.

What’s your stance on abortion measures? Do you agree with the direction states took in the 2024 election? Tell us what you think. 

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