A Missouri House committee on Wednesday endorsed a measure intended to limit future increases in state spending.

The proposed constitutional amendment would cap annual increases in the state budget at the rate of inflation plus the growth in population. The spending cap would apply only to the state's general revenue over which lawmakers have the most discretion and not to funds from the federal government and other sources that often must be used for a specific purpose in the budget.

Supporters contend the spending cap would help control and smooth Missouri's budgeting process. Lawmakers have considered similar measures over the past several years, but majority House Republicans this year have made the proposal one of their priorities for the session.

"It really tries to accomplish the goal of leveling off our expenditures, making a more stable environment and making sure that we try to reduce the boom and bust years that we have and that we have experienced," said sponsoring Rep. Eric Burlison, R-Springfield.

Filed Under : Solutions