The latest local news, weather and high school sports in and around Columbia and Jefferson City

Wednesday, January 16, 2013  Missouri Secretary of State Jason Kander says he has adopted a new ethics policy barring the staff in his office from accepting gifts from lobbyists.

Monday, November 26, 2012  It's becoming harder to track how much money is being spent to catch the ear of Missouri lawmakers as they increasingly reimburse lobbyists for freebies.

Thursday, February 04, 2010  A Missouri House member is seeking to silence lobbying efforts in the Capitol by government agencies and public universities.

Monday, January 18, 2010  The Center for Budget and Policy Priorities says budget shortfalls of $34 billion have arisen within the past few months in about four-fifths of the states.

Thursday, September 17, 2009  PROMISES, PROMISES: Much lobbyist fundraising still off the books despite ethics law

Friday, September 04, 2009  Lobbyists on both sides of health overhaul fight aim ads, demonstrations at returning Congress

Monday, August 10, 2009  AP Interview: Chief insurance industry lobbyist sees health care drive 'won or lost' in August

Monday, March 30, 2009  PROMISES, PROMISES: States may not carry out Obama vow to save teacher jobs.

Tuesday, March 10, 2009  Former Cochran aide pleads guilty to swapping legislative favors for concert, hockey tickets.

Wednesday, January 28, 2009  Todd Boulanger worked as a deputy to Abramoff after spending several years as an aide to former GOP Sen. Bob Smith of New Hampshire.