Campaign to end late abortions in Colorado pursues options

A campaign to end abortions at 22 weeks and after in Colorado is pursuing several versions of a ballot measure in hopes of putting just one before voters in the 2020 election.

The first proposal would have made it a felony for doctors to perform abortions at that point unless a woman’s life is at risk. It was rejected on procedural grounds after objections were filed.

The latest batch got an initial review at the Capitol on Friday. It includes versions that get rid of criminal penalties for doctors but would suspend their medical licenses and another that would make it a misdemeanor punished only with a fine.

Another previously submitted one keeps the felony penalty.

The campaign’s lawyer, Suzanne Staiert, says the ultimate goal is stopping such abortions, not punishing people.