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Both of Missouri’s U.S. senators now have their names on bills aiming to prevent federal funding for Planned Parenthood and other abortion-rights groups.

Last week, U.S. Sen. Eric Schmitt was one of seven GOP senators who joined their colleague, U.S. Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky, on a Planned Parenthood. 

Two weeks ago, U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley introduced aimed at Planned Parenthood and other abortion providers.

According to a release by Paul’s office, the Defund Planned Parenthood Act would ensure federal tax dollars aren’t going to organizations like Planned Parenthood.

During his first term, President Donald Trump blocked about $60 million in funding to Planned Parenthood. Those rules, however, were quickly rescinded by President Joe Biden’s administration.

Hawley’s bill, while also prohibiting federal money going to abortion-rights groups, also provides exceptions for pregnancies resulting from rape or incest, and to protect the mother’s life.

On the state level, Missouri legislators also have promised to prioritize restrictions on abortion, in spite of voter approval in November of a constitutional amendment that would allow abortions to the point of fetal viability.

These national and state legislative efforts are getting underway while local abortion supporters are struggling with a divided house.

, which services the ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½ area, has seen nine senior staff members there resigned amid arguments over the recent constitutional amendment.

Among those leaving the organization was Dr. Colleen McNicholas, Great Rivers’ longtime chief medical officer. She quit on the same day that Margot Riphagen, hired to lead efforts for the amendment’s passage, was named as the organization’s new CEO.