The Missouri House has passed legislation that would bar local governments from interfering with the day-to-day operations of alternatives to abortion agencies.
The bill would forbid municipalities from regulating advertising and advice given out by crisis pregnancy centers run by pro-life groups. The sponsor, Republican House Member Chuck Gatschenberger of St. Charles County, admits it’s a preemptive move.
“But what it has to do with is just setting it up, so crisis pregnancy centers don’t have to use their legal money, that’s all volunteer, everything they do is free, to buy lawyers,” Gatschenberger said.
Opponents argued that local governments should have the right to regulate non-profit groups, especially if they’re engaging in deceptive practices. The bill now goes to the Senate, with just three working days left in the regular session.
