ONE WAY OR THE OTHER, THE TOBACCO MONEY WILL BE SPENT, SO YOU BETTER GET YOUR BID IN TOO

Tobacco issues seem to be occupying lots of the time of state lawmakers this session in Jefferson City.

Both the House and the Senate have spent much time deliberating proposed statutes and constitutional amendments concerning the disposition of Missouri's stake in the national tobacco litigation. That share has long been rumored to be in the range of $6.7 billion over 25 years, but recently experts from both parties are agreeing that the figure will be far less.

One thing is clear: Where this much money is at issue, the spending constituencies will be heard from: hospitals and other health care constituencies, our research universities both public and private, advocates for child-care schemes and many more.

All are coming out of the woodwork looking for a years-long ride on the gravy train. It won't be easy for lawmakers to resist these well-funded pressure groups in favor of passing relief for hard-pressed taxpayers.

With many more amendments pending in floor debate, this horse is far from being in the barn and out of the legislative woods. If Missouri taxpayers expect to prevail over the spenders, it is time to make your voices heard with our lawmakers.