By AP/St. Louis Public Radio
Jefferson City, Mo. – Top Missouri lawmakers say they're doubtful the legislature will pass a major tax overhaul this year.
Backers of the plan want to dump Missouri's income tax and replace it with expanded sales taxes on a wider range of goods and services.
GOP Senate President Pro Tem Charlie Shields says there will be robust debate, but he does not think the proposal will pass.
House Speaker Ron Richard voted for a similar plan last year. But now Richard says he wants to be careful before adopting a new tax policy in an uncertain economy.
The House's top Democrat wants to kill the proposal. Minority Leader Paul LeVota says higher sales taxes would harm businesses near Missouri's borders.