Kentucky voters rejected a ballot measure that would have changed language in the state s constitution to permanently deny the right to an abortion. Reproductive-health advocates say the election results could pave the way for striking down the state s trigger law, which banned the procedure in the state immediately after the overturning of Roe v. Wade earlier this year. .
Minnesota is preparing for a state government described as a "pro-choice" trifecta. Those supporting abortion access say having Democrats in control creates opportunities. The midterm election saw the DFL maintain control of offices for governor and attorney general, while adding power within the Legislature, and party leaders say they re ready to go on offense when it comes to reproductive rights. .
Voters in five Nebraska towns approved local ordinances banning abortion care in this week s midterm elections, but reproductive health care advocates said more significant threats are likely to come in the new legislative session. Scout Richters, senior legal and policy counsel for the ACLU of Nebraska, said the measures are not enforceable because abortion remains legal at the state level, but she worries they will create a chilling effect. "They harm Nebraskans by stigmatizing abortion care," Richters contended. " .
In practice, these ordinances may not change much. Still, pro-choice advocates in these towns worry that the ordinances will create a chilling effect for women trying to find care.