Missouri governor lets abortion law take effect

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon has allowed new requirements for that state’s abortion clinics to become law without his signature on the bill.
The governor’s office announced Nixon’s decision Wednesday — the deadline to sign or veto bills. If not signed by the governor, Missouri bills automatically become law.
The legislation will expand Missouri’s 24-hour abortion consent law by requiring clinics to give women the chance to view an ultrasound image and listen to the heartbeat of the fetus.
It also requires a consultation to occur in person instead of over the phone, and mandates that women receive a description of the physical characteristics of the fetus.
The new law is to take effect Aug. 28.