Code Section
§§442.240 to 270
Statutory Definition of Illegal Abortion
Termination of a human pregnancy with an intention other than to produce the birth of an infant capable of sustained survival by natural or artificial support or to remove a dead fetus
Statutory Definition of Legal Abortion
Only within first 24 weeks unless necessary to preserve life, health of mother
Penalty
Violation of notice or consent statutes: misdemeanor; failure to take steps to preserve life of infant: M.D. liable for malpractice and wrongful death
Consent
Informed consent of mother, certified by M.D.; if mother under 18, unemancipated and unmarried, actual notice to parent/guardian required before procedure unless immediately necessary to protect life, health of minor; if actual notice is unsuccessful, then M.D. must delay abortion until s/he has notified parent by certified mail; court may authorize abortion if mature or in minor’s best interest
Residency
N/A
License
Licensed M.D. who must exercise “best clinical judgment”; licensed hospital after 24th week and records of mother must contain facts upon which M.D. based decision that continued pregnancy would endanger life, health of mother