MO HB2240

Allows a parent who is the victim of rape to file a petition to terminate the parental rights of the alleged perpetrator when the child was conceived as a result of forcible rape, rape in the first degree, rape in the second degree, or sexual assault under section 566.040 (prior to August 28, 2013).

A plea of guilty or conviction of the rape charge by the biological father constitutes conclusive evidence supporting termination of parental rights.

Requires courts to issue an automatic stay of any paternity proceeding when criminal rape charges are brought against the alleged father, with the stay remaining in effect until final disposition of the criminal case.

Denies custody, parenting time, or contact with the child to any person found by clear and convincing evidence to be the perpetrator or alleged perpetrator of the rape that resulted in the child's conception.

Allows courts to order the perpetrator to pay the prevailing party's reasonable court costs and attorney's fees in custody proceedings involving children conceived by rape.