Overview

• The Missouri Senate approved a referendum in a 21-11 vote to repeal the abortion-rights amendment passed by voters in November 2024.
• If approved by voters, the new measure would ban most abortions, allowing exceptions for rape, incest, medical emergencies, or fetal anomalies, but only up to 12 weeks of pregnancy.
• The referendum also includes provisions prohibiting gender-affirming surgeries, hormone treatments, and puberty blockers for minors, codifying existing state laws.
• The measure will appear on the November 2026 ballot unless Governor Mike Kehoe calls a special election to expedite the vote.
• Protesters interrupted the Senate proceedings with chants of 'Stop the ban!' before being removed, as advocacy groups prepare for an intense campaign battle over the referendum.