Missouri § 188.210 - Public employees, activities prohibited, when.
Full text of Missouri Revised Statutes of Missouri § 188.210 — Public employees, activities prohibited, when., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 188.210. Public employees, activities prohibited, when.
It shall be unlawful for any public employee within the scope of his employment to perform or assist an abortion, not necessary to save the life of the mother. It shall be unlawful for a doctor, nurse or other health care personnel, a social worker, a counselor or persons of similar occupation who is a public employee within the scope of his public employment to encourage or counsel a woman to have an abortion not necessary to save her life.
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(L. 1986 H.B. 1596 § 3)
(1987) United States District Court for the Western District of Missouri Central Division, on March 17, 1987, held that section 188.210 was unconstitutional and the state was permanently enjoined from enforcing this provision. Reproductive Health Services v. William L. Webster, 655 F.Supp. 1300 (W.D. Mo.).
(1988) United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit affirmed the district court's judgment that this section is unconstitutional. Reproductive Health Services v. William L. Webster, 851 F.2d 1071 (8th Cir.).
(1989) United States Supreme Court reversed the holding of the lower courts and held that prohibition of use of public funds to perform or to assist in performing nontherapeutic abortions was not a violation of the U.S. Constitution. Webster v. Reproductive Health Services, 109 S.Ct. 3040.
---- end of effective 28 Aug 1986 ----
Source: official Missouri text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Missouri § 188.210
What does Revised Statutes of Missouri § 188.210 cover?
Section 188.210 ("Public employees, activities prohibited, when.") is part of the Revised Statutes of Missouri, the codified statutory law of Missouri. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Missouri § 188.210?
A common citation format is "Revised Statutes of Missouri § 188.210" (Missouri). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Missouri law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Missouri official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Missouri attorney.
How does Missouri § 188.210 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Missouri can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Missouri.