Republican state lawmakers in Missouri have approved a new referendum aimed at repealing an abortion-rights amendment that was previously approved by voters. The proposed constitutional amendment, which would ban most abortions with exceptions for rape and incest, is set to go back to voters in November 2026 or earlier if a special election is called by the Republican governor, Mike Kehoe.

The controversial measure was passed by Republican senators through rare procedural moves, leading to protests from opponents chanting “Stop the ban!” The senate also approved a separate measure repealing provisions of a voter-approved law guaranteeing paid sick leave and minimum wage increases, which will become law upon the governor’s signature.

Democrats expressed outrage at the legislative actions, accusing Republicans of undermining the will of the voters. In response, Republicans defended their decision, stating that they are providing voters with a second chance on abortion, confident that the inclusion of new exceptions will sway opinions.

The proposed measure seeks to allow abortions only in cases of medical emergency, fetal anomaly, or up to 12 weeks of pregnancy in cases of rape or incest. It would also prohibit gender-transition procedures for minors. Polling suggests that most voters in Missouri oppose most abortions but support limited exceptions.

An abortion-rights coalition, including Planned Parenthood and the ACLU, plans to rally against the measure, vowing to protect reproductive freedom. The ongoing debate reflects the complex and contentious nature of abortion policies in Missouri, where lawmakers have a history of altering voter-approved policies.