Abortion rights gain in four states while Florida upholds strict ban

Missouri voters approved a constitutional amendment to ease the state's strict abortion ban, allowing restrictions only after fetal viability, around 21 weeks. This marks the first rollback of an active abortion prohibition since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. In contrast, Florida voters upheld a six-week abortion ban, rejecting an amendment that would have eased restrictions. This outcome is a political win for Governor Ron DeSantis and marks the first defeat for abortion rights measures since Roe was overturned. Colorado and Maryland voters passed measures to protect abortion rights, with Colorado's amendment allowing public funding for abortion services. New York also approved an Equal Rights Amendment to prohibit discrimination based on pregnancy outcomes, further solidifying reproductive rights in the state.