Two Missouri House members separated during debate

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- Two Missouri House members had to be restrained from each other during heated debate on the state budget.

The altercation Thursday was between Democratic Whip Jeff Roorda, of Barnhart, and General Laws Committee chairman Tim Jones, a Republican from Eureka. The chamber's observation galleries were filled with schoolchildren at the time.

Roorda was criticizing GOP budget amendments when he and Jones started shouting and moving toward one another. Other lawmakers and staff ushered both to a room in the back of the chamber while House Speaker Ron Richard called for order.

Other lawmakers appeared to join the argument and Richard, a Republican from Joplin, ordered one House member removed from the chamber. No one ultimately was removed and lawmakers calmed down.