Nebraska voters face confusing abortion referendums in November 2024
- Nebraska voters are facing two conflicting abortion referendums on the ballot.
- Referendum 434 seeks to reinforce an existing 12-week abortion ban, while Referendum 439 proposes a right to abortion until fetal viability.
- The presence of both measures has led to confusion among voters regarding their choices.
On November 5, 2024, Nebraska will present voters with two referendums that could significantly impact abortion rights in the state. The first, known as Referendum 434, aims to enshrine the current law that bans abortions after 12 weeks into the state constitution. This law permits exceptions in cases of sexual assault, incest, or medical emergencies, making it more difficult for future administrations to alter these restrictions. Conversely, Referendum 439 proposes a right to abortion 'until fetal viability,' effectively allowing abortions throughout the second trimester. The campaign surrounding these referendums has created substantial confusion among voters, many of whom struggle to understand the implications of each measure. Local news outlets have attempted to provide clarity through detailed explainers, while various advertisements have sought to influence public opinion. However, some ads have incorporated misleading information regarding Nebraska’s existing abortion regulations, prompting the State Department of Health and Human Services to issue clarifications regarding the current law. This environment of uncertainty has been further complicated by controversial advertisements, including one that features University of Nebraska athletes supporting abortion restrictions, raising questions about the appropriateness of such endorsements. As voters prepare to cast their ballots, navigating these competing measures becomes crucial, not only for individual rights but for the broader implications of abortion legislation in Nebraska.