JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) – Some GOP state lawmakers want to give the Missouri attorney general authority to prosecute violations of state abortion laws.The Republican-led Legislature is considering the proposal during a special session on abortion regulations called by Republican Gov. Eric Greitens.
Currently, it’s up to local prosecutors to file charges in most cases of potential criminal violations.
But Sen. Andrew Koenig says he wants to give the attorney general that power in case local prosecutors don’t act.
The only licensed abortion facility in the state is a Planned Parenthood clinic in St. Louis, where the city prosecutor is a former Democratic lawmaker.
Current Republican Attorney General Josh Hawley opposes abortion.
The House has passed Koenig’s measure. It’s unclear when the Senate will consider it.
WebReadyTM Powered by WireReady® NSI