This vote on Aug. 2 constitutional amendment in Kansas will be 'no' because both are valued
I will “value them both” on Tuesday Aug. 2, and I will vote “no” on the amendment to the Kansas Constitution regarding regulating abortion.
I am not pro-abortion, but I will be voting “no” on Aug. 2. This proposed amendment to the constitution presented by our extremist right-wing Kansas legislators is presented in such a way as to confuse the average less-informed voter.
Make no mistake about it. If this amendment is passed, our extremist legislators will be empowered to pass legislation that will prohibit abortions in Kansas, including fetuses carried by rape victims and those victimized by incest.
Furthermore, they will be in a position to deny an abortion, even to a a mother whose life is being threatened by the pregnancy. Women will be dying if a total abortion ban is enacted by Kansas legislators. Lawmakers will have the authority to pass anti-abortion laws that have NO restrictions.
I will vote “no” on Aug. 2 because I value them both. As a Christian clergyperson, I have counseled young women who have been faced with an unwanted pregnancy. I have encouraged young girls to think carefully, and soulfully, about making a decision to abort.
I have reminded young pregnant girls that they will have to live with their decision for the remainder of their lives. But I will vote “no” on Aug. 2. The decision needs to be made by the mother, with the counsel of her pastor/Rabbi/spiritual leader or trusted friend.
Kansas has significant restrictions on abortions. Abortions are restricted after 20 weeks gestation, except in situations of life or severely compromised physical health.
Private insurance policies in Kansas cover abortion only in cases of life endangerment. Health plans offered in the state’s health exchange under the Affordable Care Act can only cover abortion in cases of life endangerment.
The parents of a minor must consent before an abortion is provided. Public funding is available for abortion only in cases of life endangerment, rape or incest.
A vote “no” on Aug. 2 is a vote to maintain the current restrictions and to keep a woman’s reproductive health decision out of an overreaching state legislature.
Please do not under-estimate the importance of this mid-term election!
The majority of voters in Kansas are opposed to further restrictions on abortions, according to numerous polls. The question is, will the majority stay home on Aug. 2? Or will we join together to allow the majority to influence further policy making in our great state?
Jim McCollough is former executive director of the Topeka Center for Peace and Justice.
This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: This vote on Aug. 2 constitutional amendment in Kansas will be 'no'
