Missouri Proposes Registry for Pregnant Women 'At Risk' of Abortion

A new bill in Missouri, known as the 'Save MO Babies Act,' aims to create a registry of pregnant women deemed 'at risk' for seeking abortions, proposed by Republican Rep. Phil Amato. This initiative, set to take effect on July 1, 2026, would involve the Department of Social Services and has raised concerns about privacy and the implications of government monitoring of women's reproductive choices. The bill does not define what qualifies as 'at risk,' leading to fears that it may disproportionately target low-income and minority women. Additionally, the legislation includes provisions for promoting adoption and providing resources to those identified as at risk. Critics, including some Democrats, have expressed skepticism about the bill's intent and potential data-mining implications. This proposed measure comes despite a recent voter-approved amendment to protect abortion rights in Missouri, indicating a significant disconnect between legislative actions and public sentiment.