Mo. veterans groups backing sales tax proposal

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) -- Veterans groups are proposing a tax increase to fund new nursing homes and better services for people who served in the military.

The proposed one-eighth cent sales tax is being considered for the November ballot.

The concept has been endorsed by the Missouri Veterans Commission and is being studied by the House Interim Committee for Veterans Services. Legislation proposing the tax increase is expected to be filed during the 2008 session.

The Veterans Commission oversees seven long-term care facilities that are close to capacity.

Richard Heigert, of the Missouri Association for Veterans Organizations, says the proposed tax could help build about a half-dozen veterans homes. The money also could expand the state's efforts to get veterans signed up for federal benefits.