Cole County Judge Rewrites Ballot Language for Six Abortion Proposals

(MissouriNet) The fight over abortion in Missouri is heating up.

Six initiative petitions that sought to make most abortions legal again in Missouri have been struck down by a Cole County judge. Circuit Judge Jon Beetem wrote that the summaries written by Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft were “argumentative” and does not ensure that the language is written fairly and impartially. Key phrases describing abortions include “dangerous, unregulated, and unrestricted,” “the right to life,” and “end the life.” Beetem’s order also includes a new summary statement for each of the six that were challenged. The ballots were being challenged by the ACLU of Missouri.

The Secretary of State says his office will appeal the ruling.