In a late-night session on September 10, the Missouri legislature gave final approval to override Governor Nixon’s veto of two pro-life bills and one line item veto of a budget increase for Missouri’s Alternatives to Abortion Program. To overcome the filibuster by pro-abortion senators, the senate employed a rare procedural maneuver, calling for the previous question.
The override of HB 1307 was passed with substantial bipartisan support, garnering 117 votes in favor and 44 against in the House and 23 in favor and 7 against in the Senate. The override of HB 1132 also received bipartisan support and was passed in the House by 123 to 36 and in the Senate by 27 to 2. The line item veto was overridden by a vote of 120 to 36 in the House and a vote of 28 to 1 in the Senate.
The proposed legislation, HB 1307, would extend the period of reflection following counseling before an abortion from 24 hours to 72 hours. This additional reflection period would afford women the opportunity to contemplate their circumstances, research information about the potential dangers and consequences of abortion, and review the resources and assistance available to them through the alternatives to abortion program and other sources.
The proposed legislation, HB 1132, would increase the maximum funding available for pregnancy resource centers through tax credits. As the number of abortions continues to decline, an increasing number of women are choosing to carry their pregnancies to term, placing a greater demand on the services and assistance available to them. The proposed increase in funding for tax credits would help to meet this growing need.
“These bills work in concert to safeguard the women of Missouri and guarantee that in this matter of life and death, they do not make a decision that will have a deleterious effect on them both physically and emotionally,” stated Pam Fichter, President of Missouri Right to Life. “Pro-lifers across Missouri are profoundly grateful and pleased that these bills are going into effect.”
Fichter added, “We extend our gratitude to the sponsors of these bills.” We extend our gratitude to all legislators who cast their votes in favor of these bills and their overrides. We are particularly indebted to the Speaker of the House, Tim Jones, and the President Pro Tem of the Senate, Tom Dempsey.