HB 905 -- Health Care Directives

Sponsor:  Davis

This bill prohibits the withholding or withdrawal of nutrition or
hydration for a patient without a specific written power of
attorney granting the authority.  Before a physician, guardian,
or attorney-in-fact may authorize the removal of nutrition or
hydration, the physician must attempt to explain the consequences
to the patient and give the patient an opportunity to respond.
Any person who violates this provision is guilty of a class D
felony and, in the event of death or serious physical injury, may
be held civilly and criminally liable.

The provision will not prevent the withdrawal or withholding of
medical treatment if the attending physician decides that the
patient cannot tolerate the treatment.  However, no one may
authorize the removal of nutrition or hydration by natural means
with the intent of causing death to the patient.

Missouri House of Representatives
93rd General Assembly, 1st Regular Session
Last Updated August 25, 2005 at 1:20 pm