Voters reject South Dakota abortion ban -media

SIOUX FALLS, SD, Nov 8 (Reuters) South Dakota voters overturned a state abortion ban that supporters had championed as the best chance to challenge a 33-year-old US Supreme Court decision legalising the procedure.

''This means that there has been a rebellion against social, right-wing wedge politics that have been dominating this country,'' said Sarah Stoesz, yesterday chief of Planned Parenthood's operations in the Dakotas and Minnesota, key backers of the campaign to kill the measure.

''It is a very important victory for people who are open-minded and progressive in this country.'' Supporters of the abortion ban declined to comment.

With 64 per cent of vote counted, those voting to overturn the law had an advantage of 55 per cent to 45 per cent, and CNN projected a victory for opponents of the measure.

Signed by Gov Mike Rounds on March 6, the South Dakota law would have banned abortions at all stages of pregnancy, including cases of rape and incest, and offered no exception if a mother is in poor health. The law would have allowed a doctor to perform an abortion if a woman is dying but requires the doctor to try to save the life of the fetus as well as the woman.

The measure was to take effect last July, but a petition drive by abortion-rights groups forced the issue onto the ballot and delayed its implementation pending a voter decision on the issue.

Each side raised close to 2 million dollars for the campaign, with contributions flowing into the state from individuals and organisations around the country.

The campaign turned into a bitter battle that sparked debate in religious and medical communities, homes and businesses.

''The church teaches it's wrong to kill no matter what,'' said 39-year-old Martha Fiegen, a Sioux Falls home maker who voted in favour of the ban. ''I believe life is sacred and every life is worth living.'' Marianne Larsen, 65, a Sioux Falls retired business owner who voted to repeal the law, cast the issue differently.

''Women must have the right to make choices for themselves, not have a bunch of male legislators make the decision for them,'' Larsen said. ''It's very much about women's rights.'' REUTERS PB HS1140