Missouri 2022 Regular Session

Missouri House Bill HB1496

Introduced
1/5/22  

Caption

Provides that a person may be charged with promoting a suicide attempt or voluntary manslaughter if such person is convicted of abusing certain persons and such conduct significantly contributed to the suicide or suicide attempt

Impact

If enacted, HB 1496 would modify existing laws pertaining to the charges of promoting suicide attempts and voluntary manslaughter. It would establish a clear legal pathway to hold individuals accountable for abusive behaviors that lead to tragic outcomes, such as suicide. The bill aims to reinforce the message that abuse has profound and often irreversible consequences, not only for the immediate victims but for the broader community as well. This legislation may lead to changes in how cases of suicide are prosecuted and understood within the context of abusive relationships.

Summary

House Bill 1496 addresses the legal ramifications surrounding incidents of suicide and suicide attempts linked to abusive conduct. Specifically, the bill would allow a person to be charged with promoting a suicide attempt or voluntary manslaughter if they are convicted of abusing certain individuals, and it is determined that this abusive behavior significantly contributed to the victim's suicide or suicide attempt. The bill aims to confront and mitigate the consequences of domestic abuse, recognizing the serious mental health impacts such conduct can have on victims.

Contention

While the bill is aimed at enhancing legal protections and accountability for victims of abuse, it raises questions and concerns among advocates regarding the implications for mental health understanding. Critics might argue that the introduction of criminal charges in the context of suicide attempts could further stigmatize individuals seeking help for mental health issues. There is a delicate balance between holding abusers accountable and ensuring that victims are treated with compassion and not subjected to further legal jeopardy due to their circumstances. This dual focus on accountability and support could fuel debate during its legislative journey.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MO HB563

Provides that a person may be charged with promoting a suicide attempt or voluntary manslaughter if such person is convicted of abusing certain persons and such conduct significantly contributed to the suicide or suicide attempt

MO HB2602

Provides that a person may be charged with promoting a suicide attempt or voluntary manslaughter if such person is convicted of abusing certain persons and such conduct significantly contributed to the suicide or suicide attempt

MO HB05103

An Act Requiring Improvement In The Treatment Of Persons Who Are Suicidal Or Have Attempted Suicide.

MO A1959

Requires reporting of certain attempted and completed suicides by minors.

MO S2727

Requires reporting of certain attempted and completed suicides by minors.

MO A1808

Requires reporting of certain attempted and completed suicides by minors.

MO S3487

Requires reporting of certain attempted and completed suicides by minors.

MO A00280

Provides that a person may be charged with promoting a suicide or manslaughter if such person is convicted of endangering the welfare of a vulnerable elderly person, an incompetent or physically disabled person and the conduct was the proximate cause of the victim's suicide.

MO S00969

Provides that a person may be charged with promoting a suicide or manslaughter if such person is convicted of endangering the welfare of a vulnerable elderly person, an incompetent or physically disabled person and the conduct was the proximate cause of the victim's suicide.

MO A367

Requires health insurance carriers to provide coverage for suicidal ideation and attempted suicide for postpartum women.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.