Missouri House Democrats introduce pro-abortion rights legislation; Senate Republicans push anti-abortion bills

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KMIZ)

Missouri was the first state to ban abortions once Roe v. Wade was overturned, but the feud between Republican and Democratic lawmakers over abortion rights continues in the capital city.

On Wednesday morning, a Senate committee heard three anti-abortion bills. Two aimed to defund any clinic that provides abortions. One was a proposed Constitutional amendment that would codify the state's abortion ban; this would have to be voted on by the public.

"As I have stated for several years now, there is a strong factual basis surrounding this bill and the rationale supporting this determination that Planned Parenthood is not a qualified provider," Sen. Nick Schroer (R-St. Charles) said.

While Senators were discussing those bills, Democratic House Representatives were filing a number of bills that aim to increase access to birth control.

Rep. Emily Weber (D-Kansas City) introduced three bills. Weber said she introduces two bills every year, which she carried over from her predecessor. But after the Dobbs v. Jackson decision, she decided to introduce a bill that would take birth control out of the definition of abortion.

“I have heard from neighbors, constituents and people across the state who are terrified by what Missouri’s current laws could do to those they love," Weber said. "Missourians should not live in fear of what the state will do to them for having a uterus.”