Missouri Senate Bill SB702

Missouri 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/12/25
• Refer: 3/24/25

Caption

Establishes the "Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act"

Impact

The introduction of SB702 is likely to significantly influence state laws regarding abortion and the handling of infants born alive during abortion procedures. The bill's requirements for health care providers to exercise appropriate care and potentially ensure the immediate transfer of such infants to a hospital represent a shift towards increasing legal obligations for medical practitioners in these scenarios. This could lead to a re-evaluation of practices and policies within healthcare facilities in Missouri.

Summary

Senate Bill 702, titled the 'Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act', proposes extensive legal protections for infants born alive during or after an abortion attempt. The bill stipulates that such children are to be granted all rights and privileges akin to those afforded to other liveborn individuals within the state. It emphasizes that medical providers present at such births must demonstrate a standard of care equivalent to that required for any other infant born at the same gestational age.

Contention

Notably, the bill introduces civil liability for healthcare providers who fail to comply with its stipulations or who contribute to the death of a child born alive during abortion. This includes penalties for knowingly performing unlawful abortions and responsibilities for ensuring that necessary medical treatment is rendered to any infant that survives an abortion attempt. Critics may view this as an overreach, arguing it could lead to increased legal challenges and pressures on medical professionals, while supporters assert that it is a necessary measure to protect the rights of vulnerable infants.