The Missouri Senate has sent back to the House the bill that lets the state accept federal money for 20 more weeks of unemployment benefits.  Part of the compromise with filibustering senators that let the bill come to a vote was the addition of a provision cutting the normal maximum weeks of coverage from 79 to 73. 

That change results from Senator Mike Kehoe’s amendment saying the state would only pay for 20- weeks of unemployment compensation instead of the current 26.  After 20 weeks, jobless Missourians would enter the federal program.  

If the House approves the Senate changes, the bill goes to the governor.  If the House refuses, the two chambers could have compromise discussions leading to a final version.