Rep. MATTHEWS proposes the following Amendment No. to H. 5399 (COUNCIL\VR\5399C034.CC.VR22):

Reference is to the bill as introduced.

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting:

/ SECTION 1. ( A) A statewide advisory referendum must be conducted by the State Election Commission at the same time as the 2022 general election on the question of whether the people of this State are in favor of prohibiting abortions unless the life of the mother is at stake even in cases where rape or incest occurred. The state election laws shall apply to the referendum, with the appropriate changes being made. The State Board of Canvassers shall publish the results of the referendum and certify them to the Governor and each house of the General Assembly.

(B) " Do you favor prohibiting abortions unless the life of the mother is at stake even in cases where rape or incest occurred?"

YES ¿

NO ¿

Those voting in favor of the question shall deposit a ballot with a check or cross mark in the square after the word 'Yes', and those voting against the question shall deposit a ballot with a check or cross mark in the square after the word 'No'."

(C) The cost of the referendum must be paid from funds appropriated to the State Election Commission and the results of the referendum are advisory only.

SECTION2. This Joint Resolution takes effect upon approval by the Governor. /