Colorado Enshrines Abortion Rights in State Constitution Amid Federal Uncertainty

In the recent 2024 presidential election, Colorado voters approved a ballot measure that enshrines the right to abortion in the state constitution. This measure, known as Amendment 79, prevents state or local governments from impeding a person’s right to obtain an abortion. It also permits abortion coverage in health plans and overturns an older state rule that banned the use of public funds to pay for abortions.

The passage of Amendment 79 was supported by 62% of the voters, ensuring that abortion remains a protected right in Colorado. This constitutional protection is seen as a significant step in safeguarding reproductive rights, especially given the federal landscape. Advocates believe this measure will be crucial in the face of potential federal challenges, particularly with the incoming Trump administration.

Despite the state-level protections, advocates in Colorado remain concerned about the potential impact of federal actions. There is uncertainty about whether the Trump administration will defend against legal challenges to abortion access, including access to abortion medication like mifepristone. However, local organizations are prepared to continue fighting for reproductive rights and are optimistic that the constitutional protection will help them support patients from other states where abortion access is restricted.

The new law also means that state government employees and those on Medicaid can now use insurance to cover abortions in Colorado, which is expected to alleviate some of the financial burdens on providers who have seen an influx of patients from other states since the overturn of Roe v. Wade in 2022.