TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — The answer was made clear last night for Florida, voters rejected Amendment 4, keeping the state’s 6-week abortion ban in place.
Passing the amendment would have made abortion a constitutional right in Florida limiting government interference and removing all restrictions for women seeking the procedure. The amendment required a 60% supermajority vote to pass.
Those in favor of the abortion ban said the win is right for Florida.
“I feel like it’s a heart wrenching decision for everyone, but culturally we have made it celebrated we have made it so accessible we have made it so easy… it’s very difficult today after so many generations of abortion on demand,” Choices Women’s Clinic executive director Vicky Mathews said.
However, the rejection by voters was a huge blow for the “Yes On 4” campaign. Supporters feel the ban is too strict and argue it should be up to the woman to decide, adding that six weeks is too early for some women to know they’re pregnant.
“The reality is because of Florida’s constitution, a minority, a minority, a minority of Florida voters have decided that amendment four will not be adopted,” Yes On 4 campaign director Lauren Brenzel said.
Some voters said the issue is cut and dry.
“I feel like a woman knows her body and better than lawmakers and all them,” Tampa resident Christopher Jones said. “Obviously, they have their agenda. Whatever your reasons are, I feel like as a human you should have that right.”
Those who agree with the abortion ban remaining argue the amendment language was too vague and ultimately risky for patients.
“It’s so extreme, and it’s not what it seems, and it doesn’t represent mainstream Florida views on abortion,” President of Liberty Counsel action John Stemberger said.
Abortion rights activists said the fight is not over and plan on calling on Florida legislators to make a change.