Missouri proposal would end tax break for seniors, disabled

     (AP) – Missouri lawmakers are considering repealing a tax
break for low-income seniors and disabled residents who live in rental housing.
     The bill debated in a Wednesday House hearing would set aside savings for
other services for low-income seniors and those with disabilities.
     The proposal comes amid a budget crunch that led Republican Gov. Eric Greitens
to recommend cuts to in-home and nursing care services in the fiscal year
beginning July 1. He later proposed using unexpected money from a tobacco
settlement to avoid some of those cuts but lawmakers are looking at other
options.
     Republican House Budget Committee Chairman Rep. Scott Fitzpatrick said the
savings from eliminating the tax break could be used to prevent proposed cuts to
in-home and nursing care.