Missouri House Bill HB1110

Missouri 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/9/23
• Refer: 5/12/23

Caption

Requires organizations that provide pregnancy-related services to provide medically accurate information regarding reproductive health options in order to receive state funding

Impact

The proposed legislation has significant implications for state laws on the provision of reproductive health services. By mandating that only those organizations that adhere to specific standards of medical accuracy and objectivity can receive state funds, the bill may potentially reshape the landscape of healthcare service providers in Missouri. Organizations might face pressures to align their practices with these requirements, thus fostering a more standardized approach to the dissemination of reproductive health information across the state.

Summary

House Bill 1110 seeks to amend chapter 188 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri by establishing a requirement for organizations providing pregnancy-related services to deliver medically accurate and unbiased information. This bill emphasizes the necessity of organizations being able to demonstrate that their information is verified by accepted scientific research and recognized medical authorities to qualify for state funding. This aims to ensure that individuals seeking reproductive health services receive comprehensive and fact-based guidance on their options.

Sentiment

Discussions surrounding HB 1110 reveal a polarized sentiment among legislators and stakeholders. Supporters advocate for the bill as a crucial step toward providing evidence-based medical information, emphasizing its role in promoting public health and informed decision-making. Conversely, critics express concerns regarding potential overreach and the implications of restricting funding to certain organizations, fearing it could limit access to diverse viewpoints and options in reproductive healthcare.

Contention

Notable points of contention include debates over what constitutes 'medically accurate and unbiased information.' Stakeholders are concerned that the definition and validation of this information could be subject to political influences, thereby impacting the types of services and education available to individuals. Furthermore, the debate highlights broader discussions about state control over health services and the balance between evidence-based practices and individual autonomy in making healthcare decisions.