Iowans’ understanding of abortion amendment is lacking

What accounts for the seeming opposition of Iowans to the proposed amendment to the state constitution pertaining to abortion ('Iowa Poll: Most don't support anti-abortion amendment,” Gazette, March 27)?

A great deal of confusion surrounds the amendment. If Iowans are asked if all abortions should be constitutionally banned without exceptions, many will answer no.

However, the proposed amendment does no such thing. The Iowa Supreme Court, in its ruling, created a constitutional right to abortion. The amendment would just reverse the decision.

Under Roe v. Wade and subsequent court rulings, states have very limited ability to impose abortion restrictions. Unless and until Roe is reversed, that will remain the case.

If at some point the states are allowed to restrict abortion, the Iowa Supreme Court's ruling would preclude the legislature from considering restrictions on even the most egregious late term abortions. I doubt that Iowans support tying legislators' hands to that extent. As with most polls, responses hinge on how the question is posed.

Mike Streb

Iowa City