Inmate spit bill sent to governor

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- The Senate gave final approval Thursday to legislation that makes it a felony for inmates to throw spit, urine or other bodily fluids on prison guards.

Another provision of the bill allows the state to collect up to $60 a month from those on parole or probation. The state parole board could consider an inmate's ability to pay and allow for lower or no payments.

The fees would cover the collection costs and also go toward programs for offenders, from drug treatment to job placement services. The state budget for next year would cut some drug treatment and adult education programs in maximum security prisons.

The measure establishes the crime of causing prison workers, visitors or other inmates to come in contact with various fluids.

The bill would allow Class D felony charges -- punishable by up to four years in prison -- for inmates who expose others to bodily fluids. Inmates who know they have HIV, hepatitis B or hepatitis C and expose others to their bodily fluids could face Class C felony charges, punishable by up to seven years in prison.

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Inmate bill is HB700.

On the Net:

Legislature: http:www.moga.mo.gov