A bill that would allow pregnant woman in Missouri the right to file for divorce has cleared the state House of Representatives and awaits review in the Senate.
Missouri House Bill 1908 would prevent courts from denying a divorce or legal separation simply because a woman is pregnant.
The bipartisan measure saw similar support last year, but failed to make it across the finish line in the Missouri Senate.
Last week, both Democrat and Republican sponsors testified about their personal experiences surrounding pregnancy and divorce.
“Finally had the courage to leave, and to be told that you can’t get a divorce was incredibly heartbreaking,” said Missouri State Rep. Cecelie Williams (R-Dittmer).
“To do this, like to your point, it would strip us of our human right as well, our rights as citizens. So I think it’s important for us to to be equal and be even,” said Missouri State Rep. Raychel Proudie.
Lawmakers in the Missouri House gave the bill unanimous approval on Thursday by a 147-0 vote.
