KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Recently, you might have encountered a wave of political advertisements opposing Missouri‘s Amendment 3, sparking conversations across the state.
The claims made in these ads suggest that the amendment would pave the way for the legalization of gender reassignment surgery for minors, a topic that has become contentious among various groups.
Notable Republican politicians, including Congressman Mark Alford (R-MO), have asserted that the amendment could potentially facilitate “transgender operations without parental consent,” igniting concern among some voters about its implications.
Conversely, abortion rights advocacy groups stress that Amendment 3 fundamentally focuses on reproductive rights, encompassing crucial aspects such as abortion care and contraception access.
KSHB 41 sought a thorough analysis from an expert to help clarify the implications of the amendment.
Dr. Matt Harris, a political science professor at Park University with expertise in American politics, public opinion, and the psychology behind political decision-making, shared insights on how the public might perceive Amendment 3.
“The meaning of it is pretty clear if you look at all the other stuff that’s in there,” Harris informed KSHB 41 I-Team reporter Sarah Plake, directing attention to the amendment’s detailed language.
Harris referred specifically to the amendment’s statement, which asserts that: “The Government shall not deny or infringe upon a person’s fundamental right to reproductive freedom, which is the right to make and carry out decisions about all matters relating to reproductive health care, including but not limited to prenatal care, childbirth, postpartum care, birth control, abortion care, miscarriage care, and respectful birthing conditions.“
Harris pointed out that opponents seem to be fixating on the phrase “but not limited to,” which he believes misinterprets the amendment’s intent.
“To say this opens it up to everything, I don’t think that would pass muster in a court,” he contended, emphasizing that the amendment lacks any provisions that explicitly mention gender-affirming care.
When asked whether Amendment 3 would override Missouri’s existing law that prohibits gender-affirming care for minors, including hormone blockers and surgical procedures—legislation signed into effect by Governor Mike Parson in 2023—Harris firmly stated no.
“In order to believe that this would allow for gender-reassignment surgeries for minors, you’d have to think that, one, that is the expressed purpose of this or that, two, courts in Missouri that aren’t exactly liberal are going to say, ‘Yeah, that’s what this means.’ And I think it’s clear from the text that is not what’s intended from this,” Harris explained decisively.
Harris’ key takeaway is that Amendment 3 does not create unrestricted access to gender-related procedures or surgeries.
“Even within the context of reproductive freedoms, there are going to be places for the courts because this changes the Missouri constitution, but leaves those other laws on the books,” he concluded, shedding light on the legal nuances surrounding the amendment.
**Interview with Dr. Matt Harris: Understanding Missouri’s Amendment 3**
**Interviewer:** Dr. Matt Harris, thank you for joining us today to discuss the implications of Missouri’s Amendment 3. There have been many heated debates surrounding this amendment. Can you clarify what it actually encompasses, particularly in relation to the claims about gender reassignment surgery for minors?
**Dr. Harris:** Thank you for having me. It’s essential to distinguish the facts from the rhetoric surrounding Amendment 3. The primary focus of this amendment revolves around reproductive rights, particularly the protection of abortion access and contraception. The claims that it would facilitate taxpayer-funded transgender surgeries for minors often stem from a misinterpretation of the amendment’s language.
**Interviewer:** That’s an important point. The political advertisements opposing the amendment argue that it could allow “transgender operations without parental consent.” What are your thoughts on these concerns?
**Dr. Harris:** These advertisements can create unnecessary fear. The text of Amendment 3 primarily addresses reproductive rights—there’s no explicit mention regarding the funding or regulation of gender reassignment surgeries for minors. Such surgeries are a separate topic altogether and governed by different laws. It’s crucial for voters to review the amendment’s text and understand its foundation rather than rely solely on politically charged claims.
**Interviewer:** Given your expertise in public opinion and psychology, how do you think these debates are influencing voter sentiment in Missouri?
**Dr. Harris:** There’s no doubt that emotional arguments can sway public opinion significantly. People tend to respond more to statements that provoke fear or outrage. This can skew the perception of the actual issues at hand. As voters navigate these discussions, it is vital for them to critically evaluate the sources of information and engage with the full context of the amendment.
**Interviewer:** In light of all this, what would you advise voters to keep in mind as they head to the polls regarding Amendment 3?
**Dr. Harris:** I would encourage voters to read the amendment thoroughly and understand its implications beyond the headline issues. Engaging in discussions with informed individuals, attending town halls, and accessing non-partisan analyses can provide valuable insights. It’s our responsibility as engaged citizens to advocate for our beliefs based on facts rather than fear-based narratives.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Harris, for your thoughtful perspective on this critical issue in Missouri.
**Dr. Harris:** Thank you for having me. It’s vital we promote informed dialogue during this election period.
