Good morning, St. Louis. Today, we look at a new lawsuit challenging the language of a proposed 2026 abortion rights ballot measure in Missouri and what it could mean for future reproductive rights.

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Abortion Rights Lawsuit Filed

Abortion rights advocates filed a lawsuit Wednesday in Cole County Circuit Court to block a Republican-led ballot proposal that would once again put abortion access before Missouri voters in 2026. The American Civil Liberties Union and the Stinson law firm argue that the summary and ballot language certified by Secretary of State Denny Hoskins is misleading.

Supporters of the lawsuit say the language approved for the proposed constitutional amendment does not fully inform voters that it would eliminate current protections for reproductive rights, including prenatal and postpartum care, birth control, and doctor protections. Missouri Republicans passed the initiative after nearly 52% of voters approved abortion rights in Amendment 3 last year. The measure also includes a ban on gender-affirming care for minors, which plaintiffs argue violates the state’s single-subject rule for ballot measures.

The court could order a new summary statement or block the initiative from reaching the ballot. Abortion access remains limited in Missouri due to ongoing legal battles.

AROUND TOWN

Former St. Louis Development Corp. CEO Neal Richardson has joined Baker Tilly, a firm awarded city contracts during his tenure. Richardson, who led the agency under Mayor Tishaura O. Jones and oversaw multimillion-dollar investments, recently accepted a director role at the Chicago-based company, which received $186,000 from the SLDC to revise incentive programs. Richardson was replaced this spring following a controversy over the program rollout, and he says he plans to continue living in St. Louis while working remotely. Read more about Richardson’s hiring and contract history.

Narwhal’s Crafted will open its first franchise bar in downtown Edwardsville, Illinois, in fall 2025. The St. Louis-based frozen cocktail destination—already popular in Midtown, St. Charles, and Chesterfield—has chosen 400 N. Main St. for its newest expansion, drawing on years of fan interest from Metro East residents. Local operators Shawn and Ashley Beach, experienced business owners and longtime Narwhal’s fans, will bring signature drinks, a courtyard patio, and the venue’s nautical-themed ambiance to Edwardsville’s entertainment district. Read more about the expansion.

Mermaids are the newest feature at the St. Louis Aquarium this weekend. Guests can watch mermaids dive, swim, and interact with children during scheduled performances and meet-and-greets, included with regular admission at 201 S. 18th Street. The event runs throughout the weekend, continuing the aquarium’s tradition of immersive exhibits, such as Shark Canyon. For tickets, schedules, and more details, visit the official aquarium website.

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Centene Shares Tumble

Centene Corp. shares fell 40% Wednesday after the Clayton-based health insurer said it expects $1.8 billion less in revenue from Affordable Care Act marketplace plans in 2025 than previously anticipated. The company’s stock closed at $33.78, down from $56.65 on Tuesday.

Centene, ranked No. 23 on the Fortune 500, has dropped its 2025 financial guidance after an internal analysis revealed lower growth and higher risk in 22 of the 29 states where it offers Obamacare health plans. The drop marks Centene’s largest single-day decline on record.

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Cote Brilliante Church Finds New Home

Cote Brilliante Presbyterian Church held its first Sunday service in Ferguson on June 2, weeks after a deadly EF3 tornado destroyed its historic north St. Louis building on May 16. About 100 parishioners gathered to worship in their new sanctuary, relocated through the Presbytery of Giddings-Lovejoy’s aid.

Long-standing members reflect on the loss and history, noting the tornado’s impact on community outreach and ongoing ministries. The church is expected to face at least a year of recovery, as demolition and rebuilding costs could reach $15 million. Continued support from the presbytery and Presbyterian Disaster Assistance will aid the next steps for Cote Brilliante. Read more about the church’s response and future plans.

QUICK HITS

Mental health conditions and cardiovascular disease were the top underlying causes of pregnancy-related deaths in Missouri from 2018 to 2022, with 80% of deaths deemed preventable, according to a new state Department of Health report.

Downtown St. Louis infrastructure projects are adding protected bike lanes, upgraded sidewalks, and improved crossings near Busch Stadium and America’s Center, with work on the 7th St. connector nearing completion this summer.

Adam Lemp and the Western Brewery explores how Chris Naffziger uses newly digitized German documents to shed light on the complex legacy of St. Louis brewer Adam Lemp and the city’s early German-American history.

GENERATING BUZZ

A recent community discussion invited St. Louis residents who have lived in multiple neighborhoods to share their favorite and least favorite experiences. Participants compared areas such as The Grove, known for its vibrant nightlife and cultural diversity, but with higher crime rates; historic Soulard, with its French architecture and major Mardi Gras celebration; and The Hill, famous for its Italian heritage and strong community appeal. Opinions highlighted the diversity of St. Louis neighborhoods, touching on factors such as safety, affordability, amenities, and the character of each neighborhood. The conversation provides valuable insights for anyone considering a move within the city. Check it out.