Missouri

What's Happening in Missouri?

As of now, those seeking an abortion in Missouri must receive state-directed counseling that is designed to discourage abortion. Individuals must wait 72 hours after this counseling to proceed with an abortion. Private insurance companies will cover an abortion in cases of life endangerment or if individuals have purchased an additional rider to their plan. Public insurance and insurance provided by the state’s health exchange under the Affordable Care Act will only cover abortion in cases of life endangerment. Minors must have consent from their parents before receiving an abortion, and using telemedicine to gain access to a medicated abortion is prohibited. The state also prohibits abortions done on the case of race, gender or genetic anomaly. Abortions may only be done past viability in the case of severely compromised health or life endangerment. If Roe v. Wade is overturned by the Supreme Court, abortion will become illegal in Missouri.

In the Legislature

Senate Bill 1103: Prohibits state funds from being distributed to abortion facilities, their affiliates or associates.

Senate Bill 778: Dictates that an abortion can not occur if a fetal heartbeat has been detected. All doctors must administer an appropriate test to locate a heartbeat before performing an abortion.

House Joint Resolution 138: proposes the addition of the "Protect Children First" provision to the Missouri constitution. Should it be resolved by the House of Representatives and the Senate, the citizens of Missouri will have a chance to vote on this provision.

House Bill 1636: This bill would increase the penalty of physicians who are found guilty or plead guilty to performing an abortion after the fetus has reach viability without following the outlined procedures in the cases of life endangerment or severe physical harm.

In the Courts

In 2021, the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals decided to hear a case that would ban abortions at 8 weeks that are based on the diagnosis of down syndrome. As of now, an injunction has prevented the state from enforcing this law. The case has not yet been heard by 8th Circuit of Appeals. Read more about this case HERE.