Missouri Senate leader to end special session

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- The Missouri Senate leader says he intends to end a special legislative session next week without approving a package of business incentives.

State lawmakers have been meeting since early September, but the House and Senate have come to a stalemate over the legislation.

Senate President Pro Tem Rob Mayer said Friday that the chambers are at an impasse and that he is disappointed no legislation could be passed. Mayer, a Republican from Dexter, says he hopes economic incentives could be passed next year. Senators were scheduled to meet Tuesday.

For the economic development bill, senators want the programs to have sunset dates to control costs. House members have opposed expiration dates, arguing that they allow one senator to kill programs by blocking a vote on reauthorizing them.