released a factsheet on the law Wednesday following questions and confusion since the abortion ban kicked in when the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v.
Wade last month.The Missouri law outlaws abortion except in medical emergencies and when necessary to save the life of the mother, but it's unclear what medical issues qualify under that exemption.Confusion over the law notably led a large Missouri hospital chain to briefly stop providing emergency contraception known as the morning-after pill over questions about whether it could put doctors at risk of criminal charges for providing the medication, even for sexual assault victims.The attorney general has said unequivocally that the morning-after pill is legal, but questions remain.
Hospitals, doctors and attorneys have said the law is vague and sought direction from Republican Gov. Mike Parson's administration and Republican Attorney General Eric Schmitt, who is running for U.S.
Senate.Schmitt's office has not provided further legal guidance on the law.Parson had said the state health department would provide clarity and review current regulations to ensure they line up with the new law.The Department of Health and Senior Service's guidance for the most part directs questioners to read Missouri laws on abortion and otherwise leaves it up to prosecutors to interpret."Enforcement of the criminal provisions of state statute are left to local law enforcement agencies, local prosecuting attorneys, and the Missouri Attorney General’s Office for enforcement," the document states.A frequently asked question listed on the health department document is whether the agency can "provide legal advice so that medical professionals and patients can know what is and is not legal."Gov..