Missouri judge nullifies state abortion restrictions

Jackson County Circuit Court Judge Jerri Zhang ruled on June 18 that multiple Missouri abortion laws conflict with the state’s 2024 constitutional Amendment 3, which guarantees a fundamental right to reproductive freedom. The decision struck down the state’s total abortion ban, gestational‑age limits at 8, 14 and 18 weeks, mandatory 72‑hour and 24‑hour waiting periods, and the requirement that medication‑abortion providers maintain a 24/7 on‑site complication plan. The ruling favored Planned Parenthood Great Plains and Planned Parenthood Great Rivers‑Missouri, represented by the ACLU, and enabled the organizations to resume abortion services. "This decision brings compassion and common sense back to Missouri health care," said Emily Wales, president and CEO of Comprehensive Health of Planned Parenthood Great Plains. Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway announced plans to appeal the ruling to the state Supreme Court.