Florida abortion measure fails

The Associated Press called the race shortly after 9 p.m. and about 90% of the votes had been counted. At that time there were 57% yes votes and 43% no votes. Although a majority of voters supported the measure, it was not enough to reach the 60% threshold needed to pass.

Amendment 4 would have allowed “viability” abortions at approximately 24 weeks, up from the current limit of six weeks. It also would have allowed abortions to protect the mother’s health as determined by her health care provider. Currently there are exceptions in cases of rape, incest and human trafficking, and for certain medical conditions.