Pro-life advocates in Virginia are organizing a campaign to oppose a proposed constitutional amendment that seeks to establish a right to unrestricted abortion up to the point of birth. The amendment, known as the “Right to Reproductive Freedom Amendment,” was signed by Governor Abigail Spanberger on February 6, 2024, and is set to appear on the ballot for the upcoming elections on November 3, 2024. Critics argue that the measure would eliminate parental consent requirements and safety regulations surrounding abortion procedures.
The amendment has drawn sharp criticism from various pro-life organizations, which claim it could lead to the legalization of third-trimester abortions without any restrictions. Olivia Gans Turner, the director of the Virginia Society for Human Life, condemned the measure, labeling it as “extreme and reckless.” She emphasized the importance of educating the public about its potential dangers and advocated for a rejection of any ideas regarding punishment for women seeking abortions.
“We must inform voters that this amendment is designed to do one thing and one thing only: to provide abortion promoters with a place to operate without oversight of any kind,” Turner stated. She urged the electorate to “vote No this fall” and spread the word about the implications of the amendment.
Concerns Over Legislative Process
The push to defeat the amendment is being spearheaded by the Family Foundation of Virginia, which has formed a coalition to challenge it. The organization has raised alarm over what they describe as the “no-guardrails abortion amendment,” warning that its passage would erase critical safeguards, including parental consent and reasonable safety standards.
John Stemberger, president of Liberty Counsel Action, highlighted the significance of the upcoming vote, noting that “Virginia is going to be an enormous battle.” He pointed out the financial stakes involved, given the state’s proximity to Washington D.C. and its historical standing as a battleground state. Stemberger advised Virginia voters to remain vigilant and vote against the reproductive freedom amendment.
Despite the concerns raised by pro-life members during discussions in the legislature, their voices were reportedly overlooked by the majority in the General Assembly. The coalition opposing the amendment is emphasizing the need to protect existing laws that ensure parental consent and medical accountability in abortion procedures.
As the campaign intensifies, pro-life advocates are rallying support to ensure that voters understand the full implications of the amendment. The stakes are high, and the outcome of the ballot measure could have lasting effects on reproductive rights and regulations in Virginia.
