Organizers Say Abortion Access Is Headed to the Ballot in 3 More States

Supporters of abortion rights in three states announced this week that they have gathered enough signatures to place measures on the November ballot to protect abortion access in their state constitutions.

Arkansas organizers were the final group to submit signatures, following Arizona and Nebraska. The signatures still need to be verified and the ballot initiatives certified by officials in all three states.

Up to 11 states, including Arizona, could have abortion rights on the ballot this November, potentially providing a political advantage for Democrats and the Biden presidential campaign.

Historically, states where voters directly decide on abortion rights have favored the pro-abortion side. These measures have also boosted Democratic voter turnout and helped Democratic candidates win elections.

Six states have already approved having abortion on the ballot this November, including Florida, Colorado, Nevada, New York, Maryland, and South Dakota.

Arkansas, with its conservative population and strict abortion laws, presents a challenge for abortion rights advocates. The state has one of the strictest abortion bans in the country, allowing the procedure only in cases of a medical emergency.

The group leading the referendum effort in Arkansas aims to expand abortion access up to 18 weeks after fertilization, with exceptions for specific circumstances. This approach differs from other states seeking access up to 24 weeks.

In Arizona, the proposed amendment would allow abortions up to around 24 weeks and provide additional exceptions for the mother’s health. In Nebraska, there are two competing proposals: one to uphold the existing 12-week ban and another to expand access beyond viability.

To gather signatures in Arkansas, groups targeted a diverse range of supporters, including libertarians and centrists concerned about government intervention. Medical professionals also participated in the signature collection process.

The secretary of state must certify the results in Arkansas, where a minimum number of signatures were required from various counties. The office has 30 days to verify the petitions and a deadline of Aug. 22 to finalize all ballot questions and candidates for November.

Potential legal challenges may arise, as opponents of the effort have started mobilizing. Some organizers in Arkansas have reported facing intimidation and harassment, while some voters have hesitated to sign the petition out of fear of repercussions.

Arkansas is unique in the South for allowing citizen-initiated questions on the ballot. In the past, similar measures have led to increases in the state’s minimum wage and the legalization of medical marijuana.