The Missouri House is moving forward with a measure that would limit growth in the state's spending based on increases in population and inflation.
House members gave initial approval Monday to a constitutional amendment that would require a reduction in state income tax rates after increased revenues fill reserve funds.
Republican Rep. Eric Burlison, of Springfield, says his proposal ensures the state will more carefully use taxpayer funds.
He says when revenue has grown in the past, lawmakers have simply spent the increases.
Democratic opponents say the measure would hamstring lawmakers in the budgeting process. They say it would make paying for schools, roads and other priorities more difficult.
The measure faces another vote in the House before going to the Senate. It would have to be approved by voters.
