South Dakota abortion ban goes to the ballot

South Dakota Secretary of State Chris Nelson has announced that the state's rigid abortion ban will be put up for a vote on the ballot in November, after opponents collected enough signatures to raise the challenge. What's cool about this strategy is that is has the possibility of preempting one of the main intents of the architects of the ban:

Supporters hoped it would prompt a court challenge that would give the U.S. Supreme Court an opportunity to overturn its 1973 Roe. v. Wade decision that legalized abortion.

Instead of challenging it in court, opponents, who argue the law is too extreme, gathered enough petition signatures to put the question directly to voters.

Jessica echoes my feelings about this new development: "I'm simultaneously excited and terrified. Obviously collecting all those signatures (almost twice the amount needed) is truly amazing."

Go here for information on how you can help.

(Crossposted at AlterNet PEEK.)