Introduction
Some Missouri lawmakers are pushing for a new anti-abortion law that goes beyond the scope of existing legislation. The proposed bill would allow homicide charges to be filed against women who obtain abortions, a measure that has not gained much traction in any state so far. Republican lawmakers in the state House and Senate have introduced bills to be considered in the upcoming legislative session, aiming to apply homicide laws to protect the rights of the unborn.
The Details
The bills put forward by the Missouri lawmakers would extend homicide laws to cover “unborn children at every stage of development.” However, there would be exceptions in cases where the suspect is a woman who was coerced or threatened into having an abortion, or if the procedure is performed by a physician to save the life of the pregnant woman. The sponsors of these bills argue that they are simply seeking to protect the lives of unborn babies.
State Representative Bob Titus, a first-term Republican and sponsor of one of the bills, stated that charges would not need to be brought if people abide by the existing laws. Missouri is one of 14 states with bans on abortions at all stages of pregnancy, with limited exceptions. Titus emphasized that the prosecution would be a consequence of taking the life of an innocent human being.
Potential Impact
The proposed bill has not been discussed with legislative leaders and is not based on any existing model legislation. However, it aligns with a bill introduced by Republican State Senator Mike Moon, who represents the same area in southwestern Missouri. The introduction of similar bills in Arkansas, Colorado, Georgia, Kentucky, and South Carolina in 2023 suggests that abortion-related measures could be before voters in several states next year.
It is important to note that prominent anti-abortion groups have generally opposed measures that would subject women who undergo abortions to criminal charges. However, the rapid shift in the abortion landscape since the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in June 2022, which overturned the nationwide right to abortion, has led to more states adopting bans or restrictions.
Conclusion
The proposed anti-abortion bill in Missouri has sparked controversy and debate among lawmakers. While it remains to be seen whether the bill will gain significant support, its introduction reflects the ongoing battle over abortion rights in the United States. As the country grapples with this contentious issue, the political landscape surrounding abortion continues to evolve with each passing year.
