Mo. House endorses health care legislation

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) -- Missouri House members have endorsed legislation allowing health care providers to refuse tasks that violate their religious or ethical beliefs.

The legislation would prohibit punishment of doctors, nurses and others who refuse to participate in abortions, sterilization, embryonic stem cell research and certain other procedures. Workers could not be fired or suspended or have wages reduced.

Health care institutions also would not be required to perform medical procedures or research that violate their beliefs.

The House gave the measure first-round approval by voice vote Tuesday after little debate. It needs another round of approval before moving to the Senate.

The legislation is sponsored by House Majority Leader Tim Jones, a Republican from Eureka. He says the measure offers important protections.

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Health care bill is HB1541

Online:

Legislature: http://www.moga.mo.gov