House sends 'veteran's courts' bill to Senate

Missouri lawmakers this week took another step toward creating "veteran's courts" in the state.

On a 149-1 vote, the Missouri House sent the Senate a bill authorizing the new form of treatment court.

Rep. Chris Kelly, D-Columbia and a former Boone County associate circuit judge, cast the only "no" vote.

Rep. Jay Barnes, R-Jefferson City, sponsored the bill that, he said, is intended to help provide treatment for Missouri combat veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress.