Reproductive Freedom is on the Ballot (Again)
Protect our reproductive freedoms and vote NO on Proposal 1 by November 3.
Four years ago, Michiganders responded to the fall of Roe v. Wade, and the decimation of our federal abortion rights, by voting to enshrine reproductive freedom in our state constitution.
That victory affirmed our right to make our own decisions about abortion, pregnancy, birth control, and other forms of reproductive health care — underscoring that our fundamental freedoms are non-negotiable. Since then, Michigan’s constitution has ensured our reproductive health care choices stay between us and our providers, so we can make the best decision for our bodies, families, and futures. But now, reproductive freedom is back on the ballot this November, and everything we fought and voted for is back on the line.
When Michigan voters cast their ballots this year, they will be asked to consider whether or not to hold a constitutional convention. This automatically appears on the ballot as Proposal 1 in Michigan every 16 years and has been consistently rejected (for good reason) since the 1970s. If approved, one delegate from every Michigan state House and Senate District would be chosen in special elections on a partisan basis. Delegates would then determine if the constitution should be left untouched, edited, or rewritten entirely. But these elections do not have to adhere to the same procedures as standard elections, so special interests like Big Tech, Big Pharma, and anti-abortion lobbyists could pour money into electing delegates to amend the constitution for their own benefit, disregarding the will and well-being of voters.
Currently, Michigan voters control constitutional changes through citizen-led ballot measures just like the initiative that secured our reproductive freedom. The existing process is thorough and relies on public engagement and discourse. Ballot measures allow Michiganders to decide whether to adopt proposed amendments, putting the power where it belongs — in the hands of voters. The state legislature can also amend the constitution. State Senators and State Representatives can introduce amendments to the constitution, which must be approved by two-thirds of the sitting legislature.
Over the past decade, Michiganders have made historic strides to expand access to the ballot box and protect reproductive freedom in the state. These victories reflect our shared belief that everyone deserves a voice in the decisions that shape their lives — whether that’s casting a ballot or making a personal health care decision. A constitutional convention would put our hard-won protections at risk, opening the door to a slew of regressive policies, including a statewide abortion ban or the reversal of no-reason absentee voting.
No matter who you are or where you live, your ability to participate in our democracy and access the health care you need should not depend on the political whims of those in power. That’s why Michigan voters must protect the progress we fought hard for and vote NO on Proposal 1 by November 3 to ensure our right to reproductive freedom is secured for Michiganders today, tomorrow, and for generations to come.
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Annie Somerville (she/her)
Vice President of Government Affairs & Advocacy
Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan
Paid for with regulated funds by Michigan League of Responsible Voters, 614 Seymour Ave., Lansing, MI 48933.
