As we approach the Nov. 5 ballot, I urge every Missourian to pay close attention to Amendment 3. This proposed amendment has significant implications for the sanctity of life in our state. It’s crucial that we understand exactly what’s at stake.
Missouri Right to Life has made it clear that this amendment poses a serious threat to the pro-life values that many of us hold dear. Their organization has thoroughly analyzed the implications of Amendment 3 and has concluded that a “NO” vote is the only way to protect innocent life. They have identified 10 compelling reasons to oppose this amendment, each of which underscores the potential harm it could cause.
1. Parental Consent laws will be eliminated
If a “right” to abortion is enshrined in our Missouri Constitution it would allow abortions to be performed on pregnant minors without notice to or consent from the minor’s parents.
2. Abortion – all 9 months
If our Missouri Constitution is amended with a “right” to abortion, abortion will be allowed for “physical or mental health” for all nine months from conception to live birth.
3. No alternatives allowed
This amendment callously disregards the unborn child and the alternatives to sacrificing his/her life and future while helping his/her mother.
4. Health & Safety standards eliminated
Missouri health and safety standards for abortion clinics would be gutted if this amendment passes. Its language would even allow some unlicensed persons to perform or induce abortions.
5. MO’s pro-life laws will be eliminated
Our Missouri Constitution is our state’s supreme (highest) law and governing document. Our pro-life laws in more than 60 sections of the Revised Statutes of Missouri will be eliminated by enshrining a “right” to abortion in our Missouri Constitution.
6. Women lose ability to sue for malpractice
A woman’s ability to seek criminal prosecution/civil penalty of any person who performs/assists/provides support to induce/seek/obtain an abortion will be eliminated.
7. PRCs forced to refer for abortion
Pregnancy Resource Centers will be forced to refer for abortion.
8. Ultrasounds eliminated
Abortion clinics will no longer be required to offer or show a mother her baby’s ultrasound image.
9. Significant money loss to state
Missouri could suffer a significant loss to state and local revenue if this language is enshrined in the Missouri Constitution.
10. Taxpayer-funded abortion
If abortion is enshrined as a “right” in our Missouri Constitution, your legislator will be unable to refuse to appropriate funds to abortion providers.
As someone who has dedicated my life to protecting the most vulnerable among us, I am particularly moved by the arguments put forth by Missouri Right to Life. Their concerns align with my own deep convictions about the sanctity of life and the importance of standing up for those who cannot defend themselves.
Before I was born in 1952, my mom had an abortion. It really had a great impact on the rest of her life. I believe my mother suffered throughout her life after deciding to have an abortion, as abortion punishes not only the child who perishes, but everyone involved. As a result, I will never have the chance to meet my sibling on earth, though I look forward to a reunion in Heaven. Because my brother or sister will never have the right to vote, I chose to stand up for them and vote for life. So I oppose abortion 100%.
This personal experience is a stark reminder of the profound and lasting impact that abortion can have on individuals and families. It’s a decision that reverberates through generations, and it’s one that I believe we, as a society, must do everything in our power to prevent.
As we approach the polls this November, I encourage you to think deeply about the kind of state, and nation, we want to be. Are we a people who stand up for the innocent and defenseless, or do we allow the most vulnerable among us to be sacrificed for convenience? I know where I stand, and I hope you will join me in voting NO on Amendment 3.
May God bless and keep you and our great nation.
Hardy Billington represents District 152, which includes Butler County.