Virginia Voters to Decide Abortion Rights Amendment in November

Voters in Virginia will decide on a proposed amendment to the state constitution in November 2026 regarding abortion protections. Planned Parenthood is campaigning for the measure to secure abortion rights, while opponents, including the Ethics and Public Policy Center, characterize the amendment as extreme and deceptive.

Critics argue the measure would allow abortions throughout the third trimester up to birth, remove parental consent requirements for minors, and permit sterilization surgery and puberty blockers for children without parental knowledge. Current Virginia law permits abortion through 26 weeks and six days, with third-trimester restrictions requiring certification from three doctors regarding the woman's health.

Financial reports show a significant funding gap between the two sides. The campaign for the amendment raised $3 million through August, while four pro-life opposition groups raised a combined $254,000. Opponents have identified Governor Abigail Spanberger as an ally in the effort to establish what they describe as a radical abortion regime.