Missouri § 197.020 - Definitions.
Full text of Missouri Revised Statutes of Missouri § 197.020 — Definitions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 197.020. Definitions.
1. "Governmental unit" means any county, municipality or other political subdivision or any department, division, board or other agency of any of the foregoing.
2. "Hospital" means a place devoted primarily to the maintenance and operation of facilities for the diagnosis, treatment or care for not less than twenty-four consecutive hours in any week of three or more nonrelated individuals suffering from illness, disease, injury, deformity or other abnormal physical conditions; or a place devoted primarily to provide for not less than twenty-four consecutive hours in any week medical or nursing care for three or more nonrelated individuals. The term "hospital" shall include a facility designated as a rural emergency hospital by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The term "hospital" does not include convalescent, nursing, shelter or boarding homes as defined in chapter 198.
3. "Person" means any individual, firm, partnership, corporation, company or association and the legal successors thereof.
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(L. 1953 p. 631 § 2, A.L. 1959 S.B. 19, A.L. 1994 H.B. 1408 merged with H.B. 1427, A.L. 2023 H.B. 402 merged with S.B. 24 merged with S.B. 45 & 90 merged with S.B. 106)
(1995) Outpatient radiation therapy services operated by hospital in commercial building was not open twenty-four hours in any day and is not a hospital, therefore is not subject to certificate of need law. SSM Health Care v. Missouri Health Facilities Review Committee, 894 S.W.2d 674 (Mo. en banc).
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Frequently Asked Questions About Missouri § 197.020
What does Revised Statutes of Missouri § 197.020 cover?
Section 197.020 ("Definitions.") 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 § 197.020?
A common citation format is "Revised Statutes of Missouri § 197.020" (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 § 197.020 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.