As early voting begins in Virginia, Christian leaders and medical professionals are urging voters to reject Amendment 1, which would enshrine abortion rights in the state constitution.
Pastor Gary Hamrick of Cornerstone Chapel joins more than 150 pastors who have signed an open letter opposing the measure.
Supporters, including 300 medical professionals, argue the amendment would protect abortion access regardless of future political leadership.
However, the Virginia Medical Professionals for Women’s Safety coalition warns that the amendment could weaken medical oversight and permit unlicensed individuals to perform abortions.
Republican Delegate Terry Kilgore argues the measure could eliminate parental consent requirements for minors. Pro-life advocates also warn that the amendment would expand late-term abortion access by reducing the number of physicians required to authorize certain procedures from three to one.
The Family Foundation President Victoria Cobb raises additional concerns about abortion provider qualifications and safety standards.
Meanwhile, the Founding Freedoms Law Center is challenging the ballot summary in court, arguing that its wording misleads voters about the amendment’s implications.
