Missouri Judge Blocks State's Abortion Ban Enforcement

A Missouri circuit court judge has ruled that the state's near-total abortion ban is unconstitutional under a new constitutional amendment passed by voters in November, which guarantees the right to reproductive freedom. Jackson County Circuit Court Judge Jerri Zhang's ruling also blocks several other restrictive abortion laws, such as a 72-hour waiting period and certain informed consent requirements. However, the judge did not invalidate all contested laws, leaving licensing requirements for abortion facilities intact, which Planned Parenthood argues are unfeasible for its clinics. This decision marks a significant change in Missouri's legal landscape regarding abortion, as it removes the threat of criminal penalties for hospitals providing abortion and miscarriage care. Despite the ruling, Planned Parenthood has stated that it cannot resume services due to remaining restrictions. The judge's preliminary injunction indicates a strong likelihood of further legal challenges to uphold reproductive rights in the state.