By AP/KWMU
Jefferson City, Mo. – A few Democrats have taken advantage of a rare opportunity to shut down the Missouri Senate for the day.
Democrats had been filibustering a bill backed by majority Republicans to impose new limits on lawsuits.
Around lunchtime, Democrat Joan Bray of St. Louis noticed there were no Republicans in the Senate chamber. So she quickly moved to adjourn until 10 o'clock Thursday morning.
Democratic Lieutenant Governor Joe Maxwell, who was presiding over the chamber, held a speedy voice vote and ruled that the motion passed. Then he quickly adjourned the chamber.
Stunned Republicans vowed to fight back.
Sponsoring Senator Delbert Scott of Lowry City says its likely that Republicans will shut off debate and force a vote on his bill when the Senate reconvenes.