Florida Abortion Amendment 4: What You Need to Know
The Basics
Florida Amendment 4, also known as the "Abortion Amendment," is a proposed amendment to the Florida Constitution that would add language prohibiting the state from denying or interfering with a woman's right to make decisions about her own reproductive health, including her right to have an abortion.
The amendment was placed on the ballot by the Florida Supreme Court after a petition drive gathered enough signatures to qualify it for the November 2022 election.
Key Provisions
The key provisions of Amendment 4 include:
- Prevents the state from denying or interfering with a woman's right to make decisions about her own reproductive health, including her right to have an abortion;
- Defines "reproductive health" as including the full range of medical and surgical procedures and treatments related to pregnancy, childbirth, and abortion;
- States that the amendment does not create a new right to abortion, but rather affirms the existing right under the Florida Constitution.
The Debate
The debate over Amendment 4 has been heated, with both supporters and opponents making strong arguments.
Arguments in Favor
Supporters of Amendment 4 argue that it is necessary to protect women's reproductive rights in Florida.
They point to the fact that the U.S. Supreme Court recently overturned Roe v. Wade, which had legalized abortion nationwide.
They argue that Amendment 4 would ensure that women in Florida would still have the right to make decisions about their own bodies, even if Roe v. Wade is overturned.
Arguments Against
Opponents of Amendment 4 argue that it is unnecessary and would go too far.
They argue that the Florida Constitution already protects the right to abortion and that Amendment 4 would simply add unnecessary language.
They also argue that Amendment 4 would allow for late-term abortions, which they believe are morally wrong.
The Vote
Amendment 4 will be on the ballot in the November 2022 election.
A recent poll shows that the amendment is supported by a majority of Florida voters.
However, the outcome of the vote is still uncertain.
