Missouri Gov. Mike Parson on Friday signed into law the “Missouri Stands for the Unborn Act,” HB 126.

The Senate approved the bill in a 24-10 vote early Thursday, and the House put the final touches on the bill last week. With Parson’s signature, Missouri joins the growing number of states that have passed heartbeat laws in recent months.

HB 126 requires doctors to test for a fetal heartbeat prior to performing an abortion. If a heartbeat is detected, abortion is forbidden, except in cases of “medical emergency,” such as risk of death or permanent physical injuries for the woman. The is no exceptions for rape or incest. Doctors who don’t perform the test could face a six-month suspension of their medical license and a $1,000 fine. Physicians who do test and proceed with an abortion will permanently lose their license and be barred from applying for a new one, as well as face up to 15 years in prison.

The bill also includes a “trigger” function that would completely ban abortion in the state if Roe v. Wade is overturned.

“I’m honored to lead a state with so many people committed to standing up for those without a voice,” said Parson. “By signing this bill today, we are sending a strong signal to the nation that, in Missouri, we stand for life, protect women’s health and advocate for the unborn. All life has value and is worth protecting.”

Missouri businessman David Humphreys, a wealthy Republican donor, had urged Parson to veto the bill. But the Missouri governor stood firm, previously saying he wants to “make Missouri the most Pro-Life state in the country.”

Missouri Right to Life expressed their gratitude for Missouri lawmakers to Lifesitenews after the signing of the bill: “We thank the Missouri House and Senate for their commitment this session to increase protections to both born and unborn children and their parents. We thank Governor Parson for his strong commitment to pro-life legislation …”

Photo: Missouri Governor Press Release