ORLANDO, Fla. — Florida Amendment 4, which would have limited government interference with abortion, failed.

It received 57% of the vote, failing to reach the 60% needed for the amendment to pass.

What You Need To Know

  • While a majority voted to protect abortion rights in Florida, Amendment 4 needed over 60% to pass — now advocates on both sides are jumping into action

  • SWAN Orlando, an advocate group in support of abortion access, has pivoted to help connect people to legally obtaining the abortion pill or connecting them to resources for a patient to travel out-of-state for the procedure
  • Deacon Gary Tester with the Diocese of Orlando says he's relieved the amendment didn't pass and is continuing to push for a complete abortion ban

For SWAN Orlando, it’s a somber day at the Orlando abortion clinic.

“A lot of grief, we’re waking up with a lot less rights than we did yesterday and a lot less opportunity,” said Shae Evans, Clinic Escort at SWAN Orlando.

SWAN Orlando is an advocate group in support of abortion access.

Previously, they would escort patients to an abortion clinic, blocking them from anti-abortion advocates.

Now they’ve pivoted to help connect people to legally obtaining the abortion pill or connecting them to resources for a patient to travel out-of-state for the procedure.

“Aid access and things like Plan C are kind of our next step for the early abortion detection. People who are right after the six weeks, but before that 10-12 week mark, you can order medication [online],” said Winnie Swan, Clinic Escort at SWAN Orlando.

Nearly 43% voted no on Amendment 4, a result Deacon Gary Tester and the Diocese of Orlando were hoping for.

“We’re relieved with the outcome. We’re grateful in the State of Florida to amend the state constitution, you’ll have to have a vote in excess of 60%,” said Deacon Gary Tester, President of the Diocese of Orlando.

But the mission isn’t over yet for Tester.

He hopes there’s a complete abortion ban — saying he’ll do everything he can to protect life, from a fetus in the womb to a human’s last breath.

“There will be ongoing discussions and efforts. I certainly understand those who believe it’s a woman’s choice will pursue that,” said Deacon Gary Tester.

While a six-week abortion restriction remains in effect in Florida, advocates on both sides hope to continue the conversation with what the future of the issue looks like.

SWAN Orlando will continue escorting patients at the Orlando abortion clinic near ORMC, helping people 6-weeks and beyond.

As for the Orlando Dioceses, they have programs here to help expecting and current mothers.