Florida Supreme Court Approves Abortion Amendment Statement

The Florida Supreme Court ruled 6-1 to allow a revised financial impact statement for Amendment 4, which seeks to codify unrestricted abortion rights in the state constitution, to appear on the November ballot. The statement warns voters that the amendment could lead to an increase in abortions, potential taxpayer funding for procedures, and legal costs impacting the state budget. Supporters of the amendment, represented by the group Floridians Protecting Freedom, argue the statement is misleading and politicized, but the court found they had waived their right to challenge the revision process. Chief Justice Carlos Muñiz emphasized that the proponents participated in the revision without objection. Critics, including the ACLU, condemned the ruling, claiming it undermines voter rights and the integrity of the electoral process. The warning accompanies the amendment, which would eliminate existing state restrictions on abortion, including parental consent laws.