“So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them” (Gen. 1:27)
Life is on the ballot in South Dakota in the form of a pro-abortion ballot initiative titled “Right to Abortion Initiative.” If passed, this amendment would establish a “right to an abortion” in the state’s constitution.
A “no” vote means that South Dakota’s current pro-life laws would remain on the books. South Dakota has historically been a leader in the pro-life movement and currently bans all abortions.
A “yes” vote supports providing for a state constitutional right to abortion in South Dakota using a trimester framework for regulation:
- first trimester, the state would be prohibited from regulating abortion;
- second trimester, the state may regulate abortion, but “only in ways that are reasonably related to the physical health of the pregnant woman;”
- and third trimester, the state may regulate or prohibit abortion, except “when abortion is necessary, in the medical judgment of the woman’s physician, to preserve the life and health of the pregnant woman.” This means that even late-term abortions would be allowed if a physician claims it is necessary to protect the mother’s health.
Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024.
You can find voting information here: https://vip.sdsos.gov/VIPLogin.aspx
What can South Dakota Christians do to stand for life?
There are several ways you can promote a culture of life in South Dakota:
- Pray for wisdom for South Dakota voters, for the defeat of this amendment, and for a robust a culture of life to take hold.
- Stand for life at the ballot box. The initiative only needs 50% approval of voters to pass, so every vote against this measure counts in the effort to protect life.
- Educate others about the true nature of this proposal.
- Advocate by contacting your local representatives and encouraging them to stand firm in their defense of life.
- Support pro-life organizations by volunteering with or donating to those who are actively working to promote a culture of life in South Dakota.
Read more on South Dakota’s state election resources.
