WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SJR 1

A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the State of Iowa relating to the right to reproductive care.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Liz Bennett and 11 co-sponsors

Iowa proposes constitutional amendment protecting right to reproductive care, requiring legislature approval and statewide voter referendum to take effect.

#abortions #constitutionofiowa #contraception #freedoms #medicalcare #pregnancy #prenatalcare #reproduction #resolutions #resolutions-substantive #rights
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SJR 1

Legislative bill overview

SJR 1 proposes a constitutional amendment to the Iowa Constitution that would establish or protect a right to reproductive care. As a joint resolution, it requires passage by both chambers of the Iowa legislature and approval by voters in a statewide referendum to become part of the state constitution. The bill is currently in early stages, having been introduced and referred to the State Government committee.

Why is this important

Constitutional amendments represent the highest form of state law and are extremely difficult to change once adopted. This proposal directly addresses reproductive rights—a major policy area that has seen significant national and state-level conflict since the 2022 U.S. Supreme Court decision overturning federal abortion protections. The outcome would determine whether Iowa enshrines reproductive care rights in its fundamental governing document.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition scope: The phrase "reproductive care" is not defined in the resolution text, creating ambiguity about what specific services or procedures would be constitutionally protected (abortion access, contraception, fertility treatment, etc.)
  • Voter approval requirement: Since constitutional amendments require statewide referendum approval, passage depends on Iowa voters' positions on reproductive rights—a deeply polarizing issue
  • Conflict with existing restrictions: Iowa currently has abortion restrictions in place; a constitutional amendment protecting reproductive care could invalidate those laws, creating legal conflict during transition

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.