JEFFERSON CITY - At a press conference this morning, Gov. Matt Blunt announced his support for legislation allowing any voter to cast an absentee ballot.

The legislation would break down several of the barriers voters face when applying to vote before election day. The measures were originally designed to prevent vote fraud. Blunt said the proposed changers are a cheap and efficient way to increase participation.

JEFFERSON CITY - Missouri's House approved new rules that will give the leadership more power to control debate in the House.

The plan is similar to the Congressional system for controling debate.

Under the new rules, a House member would have to get approval from the party floor leader or a bill sponsor to be able to speak or offer amendments on some bills.

JEFFERSON CITY - Gov. Matt Blunt announceed he will nominate the vice president of a pharmaceutical services company to head the Economic Development Department.

Greg Steinhoff's nomination will require Senate confirmation.

The department administers a number of programs that provide tax breaks for business development.

JEFFERSON CITY - Southwest Missouri State brought forth an amendment to change the campus name to Missouri State University.

As in years before, opposing Senators and others stressed their concern about leaving the historically significant name with the University of Missouri.