Show-Me State Times

Cole County Circuit Court has ruled in favor of the State of Missouri in the case Fitz-James v. Hoskins, allowing House Joint Resolution 73 (HJR 73) to proceed to the ballot as Amendment 3. The court's decision certifies that the ballot language for Amendment 3 is fair and complies with all constitutional requirements.

Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway commented on the outcome, stating, “This ruling represents a sweeping victory for the people of Missouri and a resounding affirmation of the rule of law. Our Office successfully defended HJR 73 on every constitutional issue raised in this case, upholding the authority of the Secretary of State and the General Assembly, as well as the integrity of the legislative process.”

The court found that HJR 73 meets all constitutional standards, including challenges related to the single-subject rule, ballot title clarity and fairness, and legislative procedures. The Secretary of State’s Second Revised Summary Statement and Fair Ballot Language were deemed fair and sufficient under Missouri law.

With this judgment, there are no remaining legal obstacles preventing Missourians from voting on Amendment 3 during the next election. According to state officials, Amendment 3 would address several issues: it would safeguard emergency medical care for women, require parental consent for minors seeking abortions, enforce safety standards in abortion procedures, repeal a previous abortion amendment from last year, and prohibit sex-change procedures for minors.

Attorney General Hanaway added: “From the beginning, this Office stood firm in defense of the Constitution and the will of the people’s elected representatives. Today’s ruling is not only a legal win; it is a victory for Missouri families and for transparency.”