I am thrilled to have been the first co-sponsor of HB 2634, a crucial piece of legislation aimed at safeguarding the sanctity of life and protecting taxpayers’ dollars from being used to fund abortion facilities or their affiliates. It fills me with great pride to see this bill pass through the House with resounding support and now making its way through the Senate.
HB 2634 ensures no public funds will be expended to any abortion facility or affiliate, including for MO HealthNet reimbursement. It empowers taxpayers and the attorney general to take action in any court or administrative agency to enforce these provisions, ensuring accountability and adherence to the law.
Moreover, this bill reinforces existing statutes by requiring MO HealthNet providers to meet certain qualifications, thereby upholding standards of care and professionalism within our health care system. It mandates the Department of Social Services to take decisive action against providers found guilty of offenses such as intentional discrimination or associations with eugenics.
One of the most significant aspects of HB 2634 is its prohibition of reimbursement to abortion facilities or affiliates under the “Uninsured Women’s Health Program.” This measure ensures that taxpayer dollars are directed toward legitimate health care services that promote the well-being of Missouri residents, rather than supporting entities that engage in the termination of innocent lives.
I am confident that the Senate will recognize the importance of HB 2634 and swiftly move to pass it into law. By doing so, we affirm our commitment to protecting the unborn, upholding the principles of fiscal responsibility, and ensuring the integrity of our healthcare system. As a co-sponsor of this vital legislation, I stand firm in my dedication to defending the values and interests of the people of Missouri.
I am delighted to share the progress of another significant piece of legislation close to my heart. This week, my HB 1406 took a major step forward as it passed through committee with flying colors.
HB 1406 tackles the rampant issue of catalytic converter theft, a problem that has wreaked havoc in every corner of our beloved state. The devastation caused by these thefts goes beyond mere inconvenience — it often entails extensive damage to vehicles, leaving owners stranded without transportation for months on end.
Three years ago, we took a crucial step by making catalytic converter theft a Class E Felony, but it’s evident that more action is needed. Ensuring that each catalytic converter can be traced back to its corresponding vehicle is one vital aspect of combating this crime.
I reached out to General Motors, and I’m pleased to report that they have plans to implement Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) on catalytic converters, albeit this process will take some time. During this interim period, passing HB 1406, which mandates including the VIN from which catalytic converters originated in transactions, is imperative.
This simple yet effective measure will empower law enforcement to swiftly track down thieves and hold them accountable for their actions. By tightening our laws surrounding catalytic converter transactions, we can significantly reduce theft rates and bring peace of mind to communities across Missouri.
May God bless and keep you and our great nation.
Hardy Billington represents District 152, which includes Butler County.