Crowell blocks business tax incentive plan

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) - A Missouri state senator has made it known that new tax incentives for businesses won't clear the Legislature very easily this year.

Republican Sen. Jason Crowell, of Cape Girardeau, wants to make tax credits subject to the annual legislative budget process. Crowell has vowed to block bills creating new incentives that don't follow that process.

On Monday, Democratic Sen. Victor Callahan, of Independence, set aside a bill authorizing new incentives for businesses because of Crowell's objections.

Callahan has proposed a constitutional amendment authorizing special tax-free zones in certain blighted areas. Callahan says his proposal would help small businesses and revitalize run-down areas.