Missouri restricts out-of-state travel

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- Starting next week, Missouri state employees will be prohibited from traveling out of state except in special circumstances.

Gov. Jay Nixon's administration said it's restricting travel as a way to save money in the state budget.

A memo to department directors obtained by The Associated Press says the restrictions will begin June 15.

The memo notes exceptions for such things as transporting prisoners and emergency responses. Also exempt is travel that is legally mandated, privately financed or essential for an audit or the collection of taxes and fees.

The budget that takes effect July 1 includes a 20 percent reduction in money for out-of-state travel. Nixon budget director Linda Luebbering said the new directive could go beyond that.