HOUSE PROPOSES AMENDMENT TO RESTRICT SPENDING

On an 84-65 vote, the House of Representatives on April 10 approved a proposed constitutional amendment that would severely restrict state spending. If also approved by the Senate, the measure would go before Missouri voters on the November ballot.

HJR 70 sponsored by House Budget Chairman Alan Icet, R-Wildwood, would limit annual growth in general revenue spending to the rate of inflation with a further adjustment for population increases. Supporters say the amendment is needed to further control state spending. Opponents counter that it would hamstring the ability of government to provide necessary state services. Colorado suspended a similar constitutional provision after it caused a state budget crisis.