The legislature is far behind in passing the state budget. Today Governor Holden effectively lowers expectations for this session. Sara Lane reports from Jefferson City.
An unusually slow legislative session causes Governor Holden to admit the legislature may not be as productive as in the past.
Holden says that while he is positive about the bills that have passed or are close to passing, realistically there may not be time left to do much.
Holden pointed to success in passing rape and sodomy legislation, and progress on a state insurance plan and transportation bill.
In Jefferson City, Sara Lane.
Governor Holden says he does not support part of a withdrawn initiative petition that would have ended giving highway funds to other state agencies.
Sara Lane has the story in Jefferson City.
The Governor responded to a charge from Missouri's Farm Bureau that his opposition caused transportation advocacy groups to drop a petition to help fund transportation.
The Governor says it's no secret he disagreed with part of the petition that would have taken some highway funds out of general revenue.
Holden says he supports Senator Morris Westfall's efforts to pass a transportation bill.
In Jefferson City, Sara Lane.
With time running out in the legislative session, Governor Holden lowers expections for accomplishing much this year.
Sara Lane reports from Jefferson City.
Governor Holden says he will consider it a successful session if the legislature passes a balanced budget that protects education and Missouri's vulnerable citizens.
He says that even with the difficult decisions to be made, the legislators should still finish a budget.
Holden also emphasized his support for passing other measures this session, including a transportation bill.
In Jefferson City, Sara Lane.