Along with major state and national races, residents in Amarillo are set to weigh in on a series of critical local measures on Election Day Nov. 5, including a controversial abortion travel ban ordinance known as Proposition A, several proposed city charter amendments, and tax rate measures for two area school districts. With key local offices and state races also on the ballot, the upcoming election is expected to drive high voter turnout in both Potter and Randall counties.
Proposition A: abortion travel ban ordinance
The most contentious item on the ballot is Proposition A, which, if passed, would amend the Amarillo Code of Ordinances to declare the city a “sanctuary city for the unborn.” The proposed ordinance would make abortion illegal within Amarillo city limits at all stages of pregnancy, except in cases where it is necessary to save the life of the pregnant woman. It would also ban the manufacturing, possession, or distribution of abortion-inducing drugs and restrict organizations involved in facilitating abortions.