Legal Developments
Jackson County Circuit Court Judge Jerri Zhang ruled 's near-total abortion ban is unenforceable, following the adoption of a constitutional amendment protecting abortion rights.
The ruling is temporary but indicates a likelihood of the ban being deemed unconstitutional, as abortion-rights advocates challenge the state's strict abortion laws.
Political and Social Reactions
Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey, despite opposing abortion, acknowledged the amendment's impact on the legality of most abortions, yet is contesting other abortion regulations.
The amendment allows for post-viability abortion restrictions, aiming to "protect the life or physical or mental health of the pregnant person," with "viability" not strictly defined but referenced around the 21st week of pregnancy.