NWLC Reacts to Missouri Supreme Court Decision to Keep Abortion Question on the Ballot

September 12, 2025 – This week, the Missouri Supreme Court ruled that Amendment 3, a ballot measure that would end Missouri’s total abortion ban, can be included on the November ballot. 

This decision came on the day before the ballots had to be printed and overturned a lower court’s unprecedented decision to block the measure after the Attorney General had already certified it.

In response, K. M. Bell, senior litigation counsel of reproductive rights and health at the National Women’s Law Center (NWLC), issued the following statement:

“The challenge to Amendment 3 is part of the broader assault on democracy that we’re witnessing nationwide, particularly during this election cycle. Missouri state officials, desperate to silence voters, have repeatedly tried to derail the initiative process, including by trying to delay signature collection and attempting to frame ballot language with “unfair” and “inaccurate” descriptions. 

Despite attempts to suppress the will of the people, Missourians have made their desire to vote on abortion rights clear. The Missouri Supreme Court’s decision is a win for the public, affirming their right to participate in the democratic process. This ruling marks a significant step toward restoring reproductive freedom and ensuring that every Missourian has a say in the future of abortion access in their state.”