The bill proposes the repeal of sections 197.200 and 197.215 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri and enacts two new sections in their place, specifically addressing the regulation of birthing centers. The new language defines "birthing center" as any public or private establishment primarily focused on childbirth that does not provide accommodations for patients to stay longer than twenty-three hours. Additionally, the definition of "ambulatory surgical center" has been amended to include birthing centers, while removing the previous language that specified the center's purpose for performing childbirths. Furthermore, the bill outlines the licensing requirements for birthing centers, stating that the Department of Health and Senior Services will issue licenses if applicants meet specific criteria, including the provision of continuous medical services and maintaining adequate medical records. Notably, the bill clarifies that certain provisions regarding surgical procedures and hospital agreements do not apply to birthing centers, thereby distinguishing their regulatory framework from that of ambulatory surgical centers and abortion facilities.

Statutes affected:
Introduced (4394H.01): 197.200, 197.215