EMERSON INTRODUCES FIRST LEGISLATION

WASHINGTON -- U.S. Rep. Jo Ann Emerson didn't waste any time in introducing legislation.

On the first day of the 105th Congress Tuesday, the Cape Girardeau Republican sponsored four constitutional amendments and two bills.

She introduced amendments to balance the budget, allow voluntary school prayer, prevent flag desecration and ban abortions.

The Emerson-authored bills included one to amend the nation's tax code to allow small businesses and persons who are self-employed to deduct health-care insurance costs.