Committee looking at state's sheriffs' operations

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- Missouri sheriffs are seeking to address costs of housing inmates and looking to boost their own pay.

An interim Missouri House committee is studying sheriffs' operations and plans to propose legislation to be considered when lawmakers return to the Capitol in January for the 2013 session.

The committee has focused on topics that include the possibility of requiring candidates for sheriff have a peace officer's license before filing for office, sheriff salaries, mandates on sheriffs and county jails.

Republican House member Don Ruzicka, committee chairman, said it is important for state government and sheriffs to work together.