What is Question 1?
Get ready, Maryland! On November 5, 2024, Maryland voters will have the power to shape the future by deciding on a crucial addition to the state constitution's Declaration of Rights. The proposed amendment defines reproductive freedom as "the ability to make and effectuate decisions to prevent, continue, or end one's own pregnancy". It also states that the state cannot deny, burden, or abridge this right unless it's justified by a compelling state interest achieved by the least restrictive means.
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So, what does this mean? We have the chance to constutionally define reproductive freedom as the ability to make decisions about pregnancy - whether to prevent it, continue it, or end it - without interference. This amendment ensures that the state cannot stand in the way of these decisions unless it's absolutely necessary, and even then, only if there's no other way to achieve a compelling state interest.
A Yes Vote...
A YES vote means you support amending the “Declaration of Rights” in the Maryland Constitution to secure the fundamental right to make personal decisions regarding reproduction – whether to prevent, continue, or end a pregnancy.
A No Vote...
A NO vote opposes this critical amendment, putting our rights at risk. Without this amendment, there's a possibility that politicians may choose to limit or restrict reproductive rights, abortion access, and even birth control in the future.
Abortion is currently legal in Maryland, but is not secure. If anti-choice lawmakers gain power, they could jeopardize this freedom. That's why we’re urging you to VOTE YES on November 5, 2024. Safeguard the right to choose today, tomorrow, and for generations to come!