Missouri House rejects proposed changes to injured workers fund

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- Missouri House members have rejected legislation that would have overhauled a state fund for injured workers.

Supporters say the bill would have helped to bolster the financially troubled Second Injury Fund that takes employers off the hook for claims from workers with previous injuries or conditions who are hurt on the job. House members on Monday voted 77-77 to reject the legislation. It takes 82 votes to approve legislation.

Analysts have warned for years that the Second Injury Fund was running out of money.

The House bill would have made it easier for labor officials to borrow from another fund to bolster the Second Injury Fund's balance.

The measure also had a provision designed to block judges from ordering the Legislature to put more money into the fund.