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September 12, 2014

Missouri Enacts 72-Hour Waiting Period for Abortion 
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Missouri has enacted one of the longest waiting periods for abortion in
the country. The legislation extends Missouri's waiting period from 24
to 72 hours with no exception for victims of rape or incest. Missouri
lawmakers overrode a veto of the measure by Democratic Gov. Jay Nixon,
who said it would "jeopardize the health and wellbeing of women." About
half of U.S. states impose a waiting period between counseling and an
abortion; most commonly the wait is 24 hours. Utah and South Dakota have
also enacted 72-hour waiting periods.

 

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