Metro Voice News Celebrating Faith, Family & Community
Planned Parenthood has resumed abortion services in Missouri following a December court ruling, while pro-life advocates prepare for a March rally aimed at modifying the state’s abortion expansion under Amendment 3.
Jackson County Circuit Judge Jerri Zhang ruled that previous abortion facility regulations were unenforceable and discriminatory, conflicting with Amendment 3’s constitutional protections for abortion access until fetal viability, approximately 24 weeks of pregnancy. The ruling maintains some licensing requirements while removing others deemed restrictive.
“The decision to block Missouri’s abortion provider licensure requirements is a huge step to realizing the promise of Missourians’ new constitutional right to reproductive freedom,” claims Gillian Wilcox, director of Litigation at the ACLU of Missouri and co-counsel for the lawsuit.
Planned Parenthood’s two Missouri affiliates have begun providing services. “Abortion care will be restored immediately,” said Emily Wales, president and CEO of Comprehensive Health of Planned Parenthood Great Plains. “The people voted, the court responded and we will do our part: serving Missourians in their home state.”
The ruling comes amid intensifying debate over Amendment 3. Republican lawmakers have filed numerous bills seeking to overturn or modify the amendment, while pro-life organizations are mobilizing supporters.
Pro-life advocates are organizing a March 26 rally at the Missouri State Capitol, dubbed “Pro-Life Action Day.” The event aims to push for modification of Amendment 3 and support what organizers call “life-saving policies.” Featured speakers include Dr. Susan Bane, a pro-life OB/GYN, and policy expert Rebecca Weaver.
Coalition Life, a pro-life organization, announced it would resume sidewalk counseling outside Planned Parenthood’s St. Louis location. “This ruling reinforces the need for pro-life agencies and advocates to offer life-affirming alternatives to women,” said Executive Director Brian Westbrook. “Coalition Life remains steadfast in our mission to provide resources, education and support to women facing unexpected pregnancies.”
The court’s ruling is temporary, pending the outcome of an ongoing lawsuit filed by pro-abortion advocates. Remaining regulations require abortion facilities to maintain licensing through the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services and meet specific operational requirements.
–Dwight Widaman and news services
