Democrats Force Vote on Tobacco Bill

Emotion, tension, then a partisan vote as the House advances a plan to use Missouri’s portion of the national tobacco settlement for health care and anti-smoking programs. After Democrats block Republican amendments to the tobacco settlement resolution, Representative Wayne Crump of Potosi cuts off debate. Republicans displayed anger by shouting “No” during a voice vote. Crump denies Democrats used strongarm tactics. He says the legislature has dealt with the issue for a year and everyone should be familiar with it. A leading Republican in the debate, Representative Catherine Hanaway of Warson Woods says a bill deciding billions deserves more than the three hours debate Democrats gave it.