MO HB31

Amends Chapter 188, RSMo to add Section 188.125 protecting alternatives-to-abortion agencies and their officers, agents, employees, and volunteers from governmental interference in assembly, religious practices, and speech.

Preempts political subdivisions from enacting ordinances, rules, or policies that prohibit, restrict, or interfere with alternatives-to-abortion agencies' counseling, referrals, education, advertising, or communications with clients and the public.

Excludes from preemption a political subdivision's authority to regulate zoning, land use, building codes, and fire codes, provided such agencies are treated the same as similarly situated agencies and regulations are not used to circumvent the act's intent.

Permits courts to award injunctive relief, damages recovery, reasonable attorney's fees, costs, and expenses in enforcement actions, with these remedies not deemed exclusive.

Defines "alternatives-to-abortion agency" as maternity homes, pregnancy resource centers, or entities providing services to pregnant women to assist in carrying pregnancies to term or placing children for adoption.