By AP/KWMU
Jefferson City, Mo. – Some Missouri lawmakers are looking to redirect money earmarked for the state's school funding formula.
The money is from a new tax on casinos that voters approved in November.
Some legislators want to raise teacher salaries. Others want to boost spending on gifted and special education programs and hold down tuition at colleges and universities.
The new casino tax is expected to bring in $130 million each year, and that's likely to spark debate among lawmakers who are dealing with a tight state budget.
The Missouri legislature begins its 2009 session Wednesday.