HS HB 481 -- PUBLIC FUNDS (Crowell)

This substitute prohibits the expenditure of public funds for
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.

Entities that receive public funds are required to maintain
records that demonstrate strict compliance with the substitute.
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
substitute 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 substitute also prohibits public funds from being expended on
existing or proposed research projects that involve abortion
services, human cloning, or prohibited human research.

The substitute 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 substitute.

FISCAL NOTE:  No impact on state funds.

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