Creates a health advocate program in the Department of Health and Senior Services

Passed Legislature

This bill passed both chambers and reached final enrollment, even if later executive action is not shown here.

Sponsor: Washington, Barbara; House handler: N/A
Last action: 2026-01-27
Official status: Second Read and Referred S Families, Seniors and Health Committee
Effective date: 2026-08-28

Plain English Breakdown

The plain English breakdown is still being put together. The official documents below are already here.

Bill History

2026-01-27 S242
Second Read and Referred S Families, Seniors and Health Committee
2026-01-07 S79
S First Read
2025-12-01 Missouri House of Representatives and Missouri Senate
Prefiled

Official Summary Text

The following summaries of this bill are available:

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Introduced

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SB 1306 - This act requires the Department of Health and Senior Services to establish a health advocate program for eligible pregnant patients who request a health advocate for the duration of their pregnancy in order to navigate the health care system and communicate with the health care professionals providing health care to the patient. The health advocate shall assess the needs of the patient, prepare a birthing plan, be present in the birthing room or on call during the birthing process, advocate for the patient, and document any conflict between the patient, health care professionals, and the patient's family members. The Department shall raise awareness about the program as described in the act. Finally, this act creates the "Health Advocate Program Fund".

This act is identical to SB 376 (2025) and substantially similar to SB 1240 (2024), SB 715 (2023), and HB 1234 (2023).
SARAH HASKINS