Senators raise static over Mo.'s proposed police radio network

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- A proposed radio network that would let emergency personnel around the state communicate with each other is drawing static in the Missouri Capitol.

The Senate Appropriations Committee has reduced the proposed funding for the interoperable radio network and added more restrictions about how the state could select vendors to build it.

That has upset the director of the Department of Public Safety. Mark James says lawmakers are jeopardizing a badly needed, well-researched communications proposal.

But some senators don't think it's well thought out. And they question the 10-year cost estimate of $150 million to $175 million dollars.

The full Senate is expected to debate the budget next week.