Mo. Senate passes curbs on governor's power

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) -- The Missouri Senate has passed legislation to limit the governor's ability to fill vacancies in the administration and Legislature.

Senators voted 27-5 on Thursday to send the bill to the House. It would limit the amount of time temporary leaders can lead state agencies and would force the governor to call a special election to fill vacant seats in the Legislature within 30 days.

The Republican-led Senate also approved a proposal constitutional amendment that would allow the lieutenant governor to fill vacancies in state boards and departments if the governor doesn't within 90 days.

Both measures need voter approval.

Senators expressed frustration about the amount of time Gov. Jay Nixon takes to fill government vacancies. Nixon has said it takes time to find the right people.


Gubernatorial Appointments is SB 507 and SJR 30

Online:

Legislature: http://www.moga.mo.gov