Missouri House to consider bonding proposal

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) - Missouri House Speaker Tim Jones is pushing for a state bonding package to help finance college campus improvements, mental health facilities and transportation projects.

The Republican speaker says interest rates and construction costs are low, making it a good time to address what he called significant infrastructure needs around the state.

Jones announced creation Wednesday of a special committee to work out the details of a bonding package. Democrat Chris Kelly will chair the panel.

Legislation allowing Missouri to issue up to $950 million in bonds has already been filed in the Senate. Kelly says the Senate proposal will also be filed in the House as a starting point.

Any bonding measure passed by lawmakers would have to be approved by voters.