By Missy Shelton
Jefferson City, MO – 
The first day of the legislative session began with Missouri Republicans and Democrats staking out their positions on the issues of taxation and a lean state budget.
In the election-year session, Republicans hold a 90-72 majority over House Democrats, with one vacancy. And in the Senate, Republicans have a 20-14 majority.
Missy Shelton prepared this report from Jefferson City.