ACLU: Vote to override Nixon veto on abortion bill risks women's health

(From American Civil Liberties Union of Missouri)

The American Civil Liberties Union of Missouri said a vote by Missouri lawmakers to override Governor Nixon’s veto of HB 1307, which triples the forced delay period for a woman needing an abortion, will harm the health of Missouri women.

“Tonight’s vote represents the latest intrusion of politicians into a woman’s private medical decisions,” said ACLU of Missouri Executive Director Jeffrey Mittman. “This legislation was never about helping women, but instead is a way for some politicians in Jefferson City to pursue their own political agendas. It’s shameful and it risks women’s health. Despite today’s events, be assured that ACLU of Missouri will stay vigilant in protecting women’s rights to make their own private medical decisions.”

Mittman also made the point that this vote goes against the will of Missourians. In July the organization released a poll conducted by Public Policy Polling showing that only 43 percent of Missourians supported this legislation to triple the forced delay period. The survey also found that 71 percent of Missouri voters want their legislators to focus on jobs and the economy rather than spend more time debating legislation that would force a 72-hour delay on a woman seeking an abortion.