I was astounded to recently see pink political signs on the side of the road: "Protect Missouri Women — Vote No on Amendment 3," regarding the Missouri measure to restore reproductive rights.
I wonder if those sponsoring these signs have even bothered to read what Amendment 3 is actually about. Certainly, this amendment is about protecting women. A "no" vote simply maintains the status quo, which does not protect women at all.
In our state, thanks to our mostly male legislators, women have already lost certain health care rights. Under current Missouri law, women and their health care providers risk criminal prosecution for the termination of almost any pregnancy. Even in the case of rape, incest, or child molestation resulting in pregnancy, the termination of a pregnancy is illegal in Missouri.
It is insane that legislators, who are not doctors and therefore ignorant about all the aspects of women's health, should be allowed to make laws which will continue to put Missouri women and girls in harm's way.
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Amendment 3 merely seeks to restore the right to Missouri women, along with their doctors, to make health care decisions about their own bodies, without risking prosecution or incarceration. It seeks to remove the power to rule over women's bodies permanently from legislators, since it is truly none of their business.
Amendment 3 really is about the safety and well-being of women in Missouri. Only "yes" vote will actually protect us.
Maria Bailey
Joplin