Aiexpress – Arkansas’ attorney general has given approval to the language of a proposed ballot measure aimed at reducing the state’s abortion ban. This decision now paves the way for supporters of the measure to start collecting the necessary signatures to qualify for the November election.
Republican Attorney General Tim Griffin has officially endorsed the proposal that seeks to prevent the state from outlawing abortion during the initial 18 weeks of pregnancy. The proposal includes exceptions for cases of rape, incest, fatal fetal anomalies, and situations where the mother’s life is at risk. Additionally, it also allows for abortions to be performed when the mother is facing a physical disorder, illness, or injury.
Arkansas has implemented a law that effectively prohibits almost all abortions following the overturning of Roe v. Wade by the U.S. Supreme Court in 2022. However, it is important to note that this ban does allow for exceptions in cases where the mother’s life is at risk due to a medical emergency.
Arkansans for Limited Government will begin collecting signatures on Sunday in the northwest region of the state. To be eligible for the November ballot, the group needs to gather at least 90,704 valid signatures from registered voters. This number represents 6% of the votes cast in the 2022 governor’s election.
In a statement, Jim McHugh, the treasurer of the group, expressed their excitement as they believe that they are making progress towards restoring the freedom that was lost when Roe v. Wade was overturned. They are determined to continue their efforts until the people of Arkansas can exercise their right to vote in November.
The group will need to meet two requirements to move forward with their initiative in Arkansas. Firstly, they must adhere to the statewide requirement. Additionally, they are obligated to gather a specific minimum number of signatures from at least 50 out of the 75 counties in Arkansas.
Griffin had previously rejected the proposed measure, emphasizing that his opposition to abortion should not influence his decision.
In a statement, Griffin expressed his unwavering support for the pro-life stance, emphasizing that his personal beliefs do not dictate his actions. He firmly adheres to the law as his guiding principle.
Critics of the proposal expressed their concerns, arguing that it would hinder the state’s regulatory authority over the procedure by enshrining it in the state’s constitution.
Jerry Cox, president of the Family Council, a conservative group that has been advocating for abortion restrictions, describes the recently proposed amendment as a groundbreaking shift towards the legalization of abortion in Arkansas.
This year, Maryland and New York have already included measures on the ballot to safeguard access. Additionally, other states are currently in the process of either pursuing legislative efforts or launching petition drives. Since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022, transforming abortion access into a state-level matter, every state that has featured an abortion-related ballot measure has shown support for the side endorsed by abortion rights advocates.
