Throughout my time in the Legislature, I have worked to protect the rights of the unborn. The majority of Missourians have made it clear that they stand with life and life-affirming education. This week, Senate Bill 793, a bill that makes sure women considering abortion have all the facts, was heard in a Senate committee.
Emotions can run high for an expectant mother, especially when considering how to proceed with a pregnancy. Senate Bill 793 contains provisions that modify Missouri’s informed consent requirements to make sure that pregnant women receive information and have time to process their options when considering an abortion. This includes a 24-hour waiting period before an abortion can be performed, giving time for the woman to think about her options.
Women seeking an abortion need to know the truth. The bill requires that a woman receives information including details on the emotional and physical risks of the procedure and the physiological characteristics of an unborn child at two-week gestational increments. She would also receive information on the gestational age of her unborn child at the time the abortion is to be performed and must be given an opportunity to view, at least 24 hours prior to an abortion, an active ultrasound and hear the heartbeat of the unborn child. It is our hope that this information will help persuade women seeking abortions to choose other options.
The bill also works to provide options for pregnant women by requiring a physician or a qualified professional to discuss the medical assistance and counseling resources available, advise the woman of the father’s liability for child support, and provide information about the Alternatives to Abortion Program.
Similar provisions to the ones in Senate Bill 793 have been proposed in past sessions, but have been held up by a select few. It is my hope that this bill will pass this year and we can continue our work to protect life in this state.
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