Region briefs 5/13/04

Uunemployment fund bill passes Senate

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- Legislation intended to replenish the state's unemployment benefits fund and address its long-term solvency won unanimous Senate approval Wednesday and moved to the House. The compromise measure would gradually raise the unemployment tax paid by employers, starting next January, and create a board of state officials to decide the best way to keep the fund from going broke -- including by issuing bonds. Weekly benefits paid to unemployed workers would also rise gradually.

House OKs tighter rules on doctors' insurance

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- Legislation intended to bring the cost of medical malpractice insurance under control moved closer to final passage Wednesday, but its fate remains tied to a separate bill imposing new restraints on injury lawsuits. The insurance bill received House approval on an announced vote of 121-28 and went to the Senate, where final passage before the legislature adjourns Friday evening would sent it to the governor.

-- From wire reports