NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) – When Republican state lawmakers concluded a lengthy process for putting a constitutional amendment seeking to allow greater abortion regulations, they were widely expecting the measure to pass – and to drive like-minded voters to the polls.
But public opinion has been more split on the measure, especially over the questions about whether state lawmakers should be given more authority to enact abortion regulations, even in cases of rape, incest or health of the mother.
Other proposed amendments on the ballot Tuesday would give lawmakers more control over judicial appointments, ban a state income tax and allow veterans groups to hold charitable gaming events.
Both supporters and opponents of the constitutional changes have expressed concerns that the language of amendments could confuse voters.
“My gosh, I’m very close to having my Ph.D. and it’s very hard to read those things,” Britnie Kane, a graduate student at Vanderbilt University’s Peabody College said after voting Tuesday.