South Dakota Judge Dismisses Abortion Lawsuit

A South Dakota judge has dismissed a lawsuit filed by the anti-abortion group Life Defense Fund against the sponsors of a failed abortion rights ballot measure, Amendment G, which was overwhelmingly rejected by voters with 59% voting against it. The lawsuit alleged fraudulent activities in the petition signature collection process, aiming to invalidate the measure and restrict the group's future petitioning efforts. Circuit Court Judge John Pekas ruled to dismiss the case, with Life Defense Fund co-chair Leslee Unruh claiming victory in the court of public opinion. Dakotans for Health co-founder Rick Weiland noted that the lawsuit was part of a broader attempt to suppress voter input, emphasizing the significance of the public's decision. The legal conflict is set against the backdrop of South Dakota's strict abortion laws enacted after the overturning of Roe v. Wade. The dismissal reflects ongoing tensions surrounding abortion rights and direct democracy in the state.