Ashcroft calls ACLU lawsuit “frivolous”

Jefferson City, Mo. — Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft is calling a recently filed lawsuit by the ACLU of Missouri relating to uncertified ballot summary language for an initiative petition dealing with abortion rights “frivolous” and “premature.”

“The secretary of state’s office will quickly file a motion to dismiss this frivolous lawsuit that is wasting the judiciary’s time and the taxpayer’s money.” Ashcroft said.

“The law regarding the initiative petition process is clear and we will continue to follow it, as should the ACLU.”

The ACLU’s lawsuit was filed late Thursday evening in the Cole County Circuit Court.

Ashcroft’s office will seek to have the case dismissed.