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Possible 24 Hour Wait before Abortions

May 1, 2003
By: Megan Murphy
State Capital Bureau

The General Assembly sent a bill to the Governor that would institute a 24 hour waiting period before an abortion.

This bill would also require all women to meet with a qualified physician, and sign a consent form indicating she understands all of the risks involved.

Representative Vicki Riback-Wilson was concerned with the way women are being regarded in this bill.

Actuality:VICM.WAV
RunTime: 19
OutCue: "this state"


Contents: "Its time that all of us consider very carefully what we are actually trying to do, what the effects of our actions will be, and the insulting way we are treating the decision making abilities of women separate from other populations in this state."

In contrast, bill sponsor - Representative Susan Phillips, says it is a positive move for women because they will now have all of the information necessary before undergoing an irreversible procedure.

In Jefferson City, Megan Murphy, KMOX News

The General Assembly sent a bill to the Governor that would make women seeking an abortion wait 24 hours before the procedure.

Under the bill, women would also have to attend a counseling session with a doctor, and sign a consent form indicating they were briefed on possible risks.

The bill makes an exception for medical emergencies.

Bill sponsor, Representative Susan Phillips, says this bill is positive for women.

Actuality:PHILL1.WAV
RunTime: 12
OutCue: "irreversible procedure"
Contents: "I think this is a very small step, but a very important step for the women of Missouri that they will actually have the information they need before they decide to have an irreversible procedure."

Bill opponent, Representative Vicki Riback-Wilson, says the details of the bill insult the decision-making abilites of women.

A spokeswoman for Missouri's Democratic Governor says he'll likely veto the bill. But, bill supporters say they have the votes to override a veto.

In Jefferson City, Megan Murphy, KMOX News