MoLeg Update: Lawmakers Undermine Reproductive Health, Ignore Maternal and Infant Health with New Proposals
Lawmakers opposed to reproductive health have picked up where they left off last year, filing several bills restricting access to safe, legal abortion. Two bills would ban abortion completely. As KCUR reports, HB 126 and SB 139 would prohibit abortion “as early as six weeks into a pregnancy” — before many people know they are pregnant.
Meanwhile, some legislators continue to ignore Missouri’s dismal infant and maternal health outcomes. Maternal death rates are rising in our state, and in some communities, particularly those of color, infants are dying at rates higher than in developing nations. Regrettably, Missouri lawmakers continue to prioritize political theater over the health and well-being of pregnant people and babies in the state.
Supporters like you have an important role to play in pushing back against harmful bills and prioritizing healthy pregnancy and birth outcomes. You can talk to lawmakers in person at Planned Parenthood Advocates’ lobby days in Jefferson City. Mark your calendar and plan to join us: February 20, March 26, and May 8.
St. Louis Legislative Preview & Action Council Training
Join Planned Parenthood Advocates on Saturday, February 9 to learn what to expect this legislative session. We’ll talk through key legislation and create plans to hold lawmakers accountable. Don't miss this opportunity to take action with neighbors who care about reproductive health and rights!
Recap: Missouri State University Safe Sex Kit Assembly
More than a dozen young people gathered at Planned Parenthood’s Springfield Health Center to advocate for safer sex last week. Members of Missouri State University’s Generation Action chapter assembled safe sex kits to distribute around the community. This chapter is just getting started, and we are excited to see their enthusiasm and look forward to the great things they will accomplish!
Recap: Roe v. Wade Anniversary Events
January 22 marked the 46th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, the Supreme Court’s landmark decision affirming the constitutional right to safe, legal abortion.
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Columbia Action Council Launch: Last Thursday, 15 Columbia reproductive health advocates gathered to celebrate the anniversary of Roe v. Wade and talk about what they can do to make a difference for sexual and reproductive health access in their own community. This was a kickoff event for Columbia’s Planned Parenthood Action Council. There will be opportunities every other Thursday for Mid-Missouri Planned Parenthood advocates to come together, get a legislative and policy update, and take action to improve access to sexual and reproductive health care. Email Mid-Missouri Organizer Cortney Bouse for more information!
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Kansas City Reversing Roe Documentary Screening and Discussion: More than 60 activists joined Planned Parenthood Great Plains Votes, the ACLU of Kansas, and the Greater Kansas City Women’s Political Caucus Saturday to watch Reversing Roe, a 2018 documentary about the history and current state of reproductive health in the U.S. following Roe v. Wade. The screening was followed by a discussion with the film’s featured physician and Planned Parenthood provider, Dr. Colleen McNicholas. Volunteers and community advocates engaged in conversation about how to protect the right to safe, legal abortion in Kansas and Missouri.
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