Prohibits laws or public policies from infringing on the right of individuals to refuse medical procedures or treatments
If passed, SJR63 would significantly impact public health policy and individual rights in Missouri. The amendment would prohibit state and local governments, including public educational institutions, from enforcing mandates related to medical treatments. This could fundamentally alter how public health measures are implemented, particularly in response to health crises. Proponents argue this is a necessary protection of personal freedoms, allowing individuals the autonomy to make their own health decisions without government interference.
Senate Joint Resolution No. 63 (SJR63) proposes an amendment to the Missouri Constitution that would explicitly safeguard the right of individuals to refuse medical procedures or treatments. This includes any form of medical intervention such as injections, vaccines, or prophylactic measures. The proposed amendment aims to ensure that no state law, order, ordinance, regulation, or public policy can infringe upon this right, thereby creating a constitutional guarantee of medical autonomy for individuals within the state. SJR63 is set to be voted on by the state's qualified voters during the next general election or at a special election called by the governor.
The bill is likely to spark considerable debate regarding the balance between individual rights and public health obligations. Supporters of SJR63 contend that the government should not mandate medical interventions, asserting that such decisions are inherently personal. However, opponents may argue that unfettered rights to refuse medical treatments can jeopardize community health efforts and undermine public health programs, especially those that rely on herd immunity and vaccination rates. The discourse surrounding this bill will reflect broader national conversations about personal liberty, health care, and the role of government in medical decisions.