HCS HJR 16 -- PROTECTION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS

SPONSOR:  Davis

COMMITTEE ACTION:  Voted "do pass" by the Special Committee on
Children and Families by a vote of 6 to 5.

Upon voter approval, this proposed constitutional amendment
guarantees a parent or legal guardian the right to care, educate,
and raise his or her children without governmental hindrance
unless there is a compelling governmental interest.

FISCAL NOTE:  Estimated Cost on General Revenue Fund of Unknown
in FY 2010, FY 2011, and FY 2012.  No impact on Other State Funds
in FY 2010, FY 2011, and FY 2012.

PROPONENTS:  Supporters say that the bill is necessary because
the institution of the family, as a fundamental right of parents,
is being undermined by our society.

Testifying for the bill were Representative Davis; Missouri
Family Network; Concerned Women for America of Missouri; and
Missouri Eagle Forum.

OPPONENTS:  Those who oppose the bill say that it raises severe
concerns about the impact it will have on children who have been
abused or neglected.  The vague language of the bill is
dangerous.

Testifying against the bill were Partnership for Children; Jay
Wood, Missouri Kids First; and Missouri Council of School
Administrators.

Missouri House of Representatives
95th General Assembly, 1st Regular Session
Last Updated November 17, 2009 at 9:26 am