Missouri Abortion Rights Face New Challenges After court Ruling
Updated May 29, 2025
Despite Missouri voters’ approval of Amendment 3, enshrining reproductive freedom including abortion rights, the state’s Supreme Court has complex the issue. The court overturned a lower court ruling that had temporarily blocked enforcement of Targeted Regulation of Abortion Providers (TRAP) laws. This decision impacts abortion rights and access in the state.
Following the overturning of Roe v.Wade, the Missouri Supreme Court’s recent action has forced Planned Parenthood affiliates to halt abortions. These clinics had resumed services after a Jackson County judge suspended several TRAP laws, including a 72-hour waiting period and specific clinic requirements. Judge Jerri Zhang’s initial decision aimed to allow abortions to continue while a case challenging the restrictions proceeded toward a January 2026 trial.
The Supreme Court’s intervention means these restrictions are back in effect, potentially creating a de facto abortion ban. The Associated Press reported that clinics had to cancel scheduled procedures, leaving many pregnant individuals in a state of uncertainty.
“This decision puts our state back under a de facto abortion ban and is devastating for Missourians and the providers they trust with their personal health care decisions,” said Emily Wales and Margot Riphagen, leaders of Planned Parenthood affiliates in Missouri.
Planned Parenthood lawyers are seeking to reinstate the preliminary injunction, but the legal landscape remains uncertain. Even if successful, the future of reproductive freedom in Missouri is far from secure.
Missouri lawmakers have scheduled another constitutional amendment for the November 2026 ballot. This amendment aims to repeal the existing reproductive freedom amendment, potentially banning nearly all abortions. Gov. Mike Kehoe could also call for a special election to address the issue sooner.
What’s next
The legal battle over abortion rights in Missouri continues, with potential for further court action and a looming vote on a new constitutional amendment. The coming months will be critical in determining the future of reproductive healthcare access in the state.
