The ballot initiative in Missouri seeking to legalize abortion has been given the green light by the state Supreme Court. The court unanimously ruled that Attorney General Andrew Bailey had been using misleading and incorrect arguments to delay approving the cost estimates ballot measure, which is necessary for certification. This delay had prevented supporters from collecting signatures to place the measure on the ballot for next year’s election. The court recognized the harm caused to plaintiff Anna Fitz-James and the initiative process, noting that it should have taken 54 days but had taken at least 135 days. The ACLU of Missouri, representing Fitz-James, praised the decision as a victory for Missourians and the right to direct democracy. The dispute began in March when the state auditor’s office conducted a cost estimate, which Bailey rejected, claiming the measure would have a drastic impact costing taxpayers billions. The proposed ballot initiative aims to enshrine the right to make decisions about abortion and pregnancy-related issues in the state’s constitution. The court ruled that the attorney general only has the authority to review the legal content and form of the auditor’s reports, not their substance. The attorney general now has until 1 p.m. on Friday to approve the auditor’s fiscal assessment, after which the proposal can move forward to the Missouri secretary of state’s office for certification. Once certified, supporters can gather the required signatures.
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