By Marshall Griffin, KWMU
Jefferson City, MO – Republican leaders in the Missouri House have changed some of the rules for committee assignments and other procedures that had soured relations with Democrats.
The minority party now has more power in choosing which committees their members will sit on.
And if a Democrat tries to amend to a bill, he or she can now withdraw the amendment if majority members try to rewrite it.
House Speaker Ron Richard (R, Joplin) says he and other GOP leaders are committed to building good relationships with Democrats.
"We're letting them appoint their members, and we're doing everything we can...we've given them parking places, we've given them extra help and better seating, different offices," Richard said.
House Minority Floor Leader Paul LeVota (D, Independence) doesn't think the new rules go far enough.
But he was pleased with the change in direction and gave other Democrats his blessing if they chose to support them.
"I think the fact that we're (going to) have our guiding rules for the next year where every member gets their judgment to vote beyond any type of partisan pressure, I think is a great way to start," LeVota said.
Missouri's former House Speaker, Rod Jetton, exercised more control over committee assignments, which Democrats had criticized as a "power grab."