LAS VEGAS — A ballot question to enshrine Nevada's abortion rights in the state constitution has received its first nod of approval from voters, who must also approve the measure in 2026 in order to amend the constitution.
The measure passed early Wednesday morning.
It's a win for supporters in the state and elsewhere who are fighting to strengthen abortion access after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, the landmark decision that made abortion legal nationwide for 50 years. It also comes more than 30 years after Nevada residents voted to legalize abortions until 24 weeks, with exceptions to save a mother's life or to protect her health.
Here's a closer look at the key ballot measures that went before Nevada voters, including abortion access:
Abortion rights
Nevada overwhelmingly voted to pass the abortion ballot measure, one of several victories for abortion rights advocates.
If it again passes in 2026, the constitutional amendment wouldn't expand current access in the state, but supporters and organizers of the initiative say it will add an extra layer of protection.
State laws in Nevada are more vulnerable to change — the current 1990 law could be reversed by another voter referendum — but proposed amendments to the state constitution have to pass in two consecutive elections.