HB 481 -- Public Funds

Co-Sponsors:  Crowell, Bearden, Rupp, Moore, Ervin, Lipke (157),
Smith (14), Muckler, Dixon, Viebrock

This bill prohibits the expenditure of public funds to existing
or proposed health and social services programs that directly or
indirectly subsidize abortion services.  An entity that is
affiliated with another entity that provides abortion services
may only receive public funds if the affiliated entity is an
independent affiliate.  Entities that provide counseling to
pregnant women and receive public funds may only provide
non-directive pregnancy counseling and may not display or
distribute materials promoting abortion services.

The bill requires entities that receive public funds to maintain
records that demonstrate strict compliance with this section.  An
independent audit of these entities must be conducted at least
once every three years.  If the recipient of public funds is
affiliated with an entity that provides abortion services, an
audit must be conducted each year to ensure compliance.  The bill
includes exceptions for reimbursement to entities that provide
services that are required under federal Medicaid regulations and
certain services required under the federal family planning
program.

The bill also prohibits public funds from being expended on
existing or proposed research projects that involve abortion
services, human cloning, or prohibited human research.

The bill gives taxpayers of the state standing to bring suit
against the state or a recipient of public funds in violation of
the provisions of the bill.

Missouri House of Representatives
Last Updated July 25, 2003 at 10:12 am