Those who oppose state oversight, including former judge Gary Schmidt, say schools already monitor the association's regulations and government supervision is unnecessary.

Proponents say the association is unfair to large schools and there is currently no way to guarantee the agency will make consistent decisions about student athletics.

From the state capitol, I'm Sarah Wire.

Intro: A house Committee hearing grew heated Wednesday as legislators considered if the state should regulate the Missouri State High School Activities Association. Sarah Wire has more from Jefferson City. 

Representative Kevin Wilson became frustrated as school officials from around the state spoke against regulating the association and said the legislature has every right to monitor the agency because it is paid for through fees gathered from schools.

Those who oppose state oversight say the association can regulate itself and does not need a state watchdog.

From the state capitol, I'm Sarah Wire.

Intro:A house Committee hearing considered if the state should regulate the Missouri State High School Activities Association, a move some supporters say would level the playing field. Sarah Wire has more from Jefferson City. 

Several supporters of state oversight, such as lawyer and former MU Basketball captain Joe Scott,  called the agency's current system unfair and argued that although the association says it's voluntary, it actually isn't because schools can't leave without a consequence.

Most of the state's junior and senior high schools are part of the association and opponents of state oversight say the agency is necessary because it makes all schools play according to the same rules.

From the state capitol, I'm Sarah Wire.