Lawmakers debated a bill that would endanger student health centers on college campuses in a hearing on Thursday.
House Bill 575, which is mainly known for its section on concealed carry, also includes a section that would eliminate required student health fees for students with existing health insurance.
The bill’s sponsor, Rep. Dean Dorhman, R-La Monte, said the section on student fees was “drafted on the spot” and could “use some work.”
Sen. Brian Williams, D-St. Louis County, expressed his concerns for the negative impact the bill could have for students who rely on their colleges’ health centers.
“I’m worried that it could potentially cause unintended consequence for students that don't have health insurance,” he said.
Williams said the bill would limit resources for counseling centers, which are already in high demand.
According to an MU spokesperson, the MU Student Health Center receives 65 percent of its budget from student fees.