Wrap: St. Louis County Senator Gina Walsh said the measure and its sales taxes would help keep the zoo in its best possible shape.

No one spoke against the measure, and it passed with twenty-six votes yes and four no.

House opponents said the bill would hurt poor Missourians the most through the sales tax.

The measure would require the purpose of a sales tax be included on a ballot to avoid miscommunication with voters.

Reporting from the state Capitol, I'm Jack Morrisroe.

Wrap: The zoo itself would remain free. However, its surrounding buildings and events might be subject to admission charges.

A minority of House lawmakers were opposed to the measure because it would be in addition to current property taxes.

The measure would also limit the amount localities can increase sales taxes. Cities would be allowed to raise sales taxes up to two percent, while counties would be allowed one percent. St. Louis County would be allowed to raise theirs higher than all other counties.

Further, St. Louis would be the only zoo able to propose a sales tax increase in Missouri.

Reporting from the state Capitol, I'm Jack Morrisroe.