CHARLESTON, WV (WOWK) — Democratic West Virginia gubernatorial candidate and Huntington Mayor Steve Williams wants voters to decide on the legality of abortion in the state.

Williams wants Gov. Jim Justice (R-WV) to include an abortion bill in the upcoming special session of the legislature. The bill would allow for that constitutional amendment to legalize abortion, to be decided by voters with a November ballot initiative.

State lawmakers said they already spoke for the people when they outlawed most abortions. But many Democrats say it would be more fair to let voters decide.

“The fact of the matter is, I think it is more healthy. It’s not anybody’s business for the legislature to step into a doctor’s office with a woman and her physician. And frankly, this is freedom, that’s being placed on the ballot,” said Huntington Mayor Steve Williams, (D) Candidate for WV Governor.

“Every life is worthy. No matter the circumstances on their conception, or their birth, every life deserves the chance to live. The voters voted us in for a reason. They knew exactly where each of us stood,” said Del. Kathie Hess Crouse, (R) Putnam.

So far, Gov. Justice says the focus of the special session would be funding the split of DHHR into three agencies. He also wants lawmakers to pass a bill to help more families with childcare.

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As of now, the governor’s office has not responded to the possible abortion ballot initiative.

Seven states, including Ohio, have approved ballot initiatives supporting reproductive rights. At least 11 other states are still considering a vote by the people later this year.

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