The debate stems from a proposed deduction for parents who send their children to private high schools. The deduction is being pushed by religious groups and a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers. Supporters say parents who send their kids to private high schools deserve a tax break, while opponents disagree with giving a tax break to such a small group of Missourians. More than 26,000 students attend private high schools in Missouri.
Opponents also say it's bad policy to give public funding to private schools.
Opponents stalled debate for three consecutive days last week. A majority vote can end a Senate filibuster, but it's a motion not used by Missouri Senate tradition. Senate Administrator Ron Kirchoff said the Senate has only ended filibusters twice in its history. Following adjournment Thursday, he said he doesn't expect Wiggins' bill will ever see a final vote. Jacob failed three times to amend Wiggins' bill.