JEFFERSON CITY — Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder is calling for a special legislative session so Missouri lawmakers can approve more aid for those struggling with utility bills.
For each of the last three years, lawmakers have added extra money to the assistance program as one of their first bills. Kinder said Thursday that higher projected energy costs for this winter demand quicker action.
Kinder says the session should be called after the November election.
Special sessions are generally called by the governor. Gov. Matt Blunt said he's considering Kinder's request but wants to see how existing plans to distribute aid are working.
The state aid program, called Utilicare, comes on top of the federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. Seniors and disabled Missourians can request help in October, while others start in November.