- Introduced -

SB 976 - This act establishes the Office on Women's Health within the Department of Health. A new Section 192.965 outlines the duties of the Office, including:

- Assistance in assessing women's health needs in Missouri;

- Providing policy analysis, identifying issues, and establishing priorities for the Director of the Department of Health;

- Serving as a central location for information about women's health;

- Promoting coordination of women's health efforts throughout Missouri; and

- Increasing visibility of the many factors affecting the health and well-being of girls and women in Missouri.

A new Section 192.968 allows the Director of the Department of Health to appoint a committee of experts in girls' and women's health who will reflect the geographic, racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic diversity in the state. The committee will help the Chief identify and analyze issues and may provide policy advice.

ERIN MOTLEY