In the state of Maine, any proposed amendment requires two-thirds approval of both branches of the legislature (House and Senate) before the referendum is submitted to voters at the next general election. At that point, a simple majority is required for the amendment to be adopted.
Last year a resolution was introduced, proposing an amendment to the constitution of Maine to “Protect Personal Reproductive Autonomy.” As amended the proposed amendment stated in part: “Neither the State nor any political subdivision of the State may deny or infringe on a person’s right to reproductive autonomy unless the denial or infringement is justified by a compelling state interest and is accomplished using the least restrictive means necessary.” For all practical purposes, the amendment placed “autonomous decision-making” above any protections for young women or children.
On April 9, 2024, the proposed amendment failed to get the necessary 2/3 votes in the House and was subsequently tabled in the Senate.
