Campaigns for and against the abortion ballot question say they’re going to increase their messaging heading into the last month before election day.
Both campaigns were focused on a lawsuit that seeks to invalidate signatures gathered to place Constitutional Amendment G on the ballot.
But scheduling complications led to that trial not starting until December — almost a month after voters weigh in.
Rick Weiland is with Dakotans For Health. He said the group has faced lawsuits since the petition drive began.
“I think the bottom line is as we go into the last 30-some days is to keep our foot on the pedal and do everything we can to ensure the voters of South Dakota have the right information and that we get the vote out," Weiland said. "It’s always about voter turnout.”
Current state law prohibits nearly all abortions. There are no exceptions for rape, incest, severe fetal anomalies or health.
Of the 20 states that ban abortion, South Dakota is one of six that does not allow for a health exception. Doctors accused of providing an unlawful abortion face a class six felony.
Constitutional Amendment G sets up a trimester framework of abortion rights — allowing the state to restrict abortion as a pregnancy progresses — except to preserve life or health. Backers say it restores Roe V. Wade protections.
Opponents say the health exception allow for abortion up to birth.
Caroline Woods, a spokesperson for Life Defense Fund, said they’re trying to hit voters with their message on all fronts.
“Boots on the ground. We’re putting ads up. We’re having billboards. We’re informing people. We’re talking to our friends. We’re asking churches to get more involved — a lot of churches are doing an incredible job of that," Woods said. "I would say it’s a combination of all those things, to make sure we’re getting the word out on what this does.”
Both Life Defense Fund and Dakotans For Health say fundraising efforts are strong heading into the final weeks of the 2024 election.
