Bill > SB1221

This bill establishes the "Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act", which mandates that any child born alive during or after an abortion must receive the same medical care and rights as any other newborn. Healthcare providers are required to exercise professional medical skills to preserve the life and health of such a child, which includes determining whether to initiate resuscitation, continue treatment, or provide comfort care. The bill creates civil liability for individuals who knowingly cause the death of a born-alive infant, fail to provide appropriate medical care, perform an unlawful abortion, or assist in a self-induced abortion. It allows for legal action by the spouse, partner, parents, and children of a deceased person, with potential damages including loss of future fertility, loss of companionship, and other compensable harm. The bill also specifies that individuals who have been victims of criminal conduct, domestic violence, or sexual assault cannot bring a lawsuit related to an abortion, and it emphasizes that the provisions must be interpreted consistently with the U.S. and state constitutions. The legislation represents a significant expansion of legal protections for infants born during attempted abortions, creating both criminal and civil penalties for medical professionals and others who do not provide appropriate care.

Health and Social Services

https://www.senate.mo.gov/26info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=495