Mo. House approves public prayer constitutional amendment

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) -- House members approve a proposed constitutional amendment that would clarify the right to pray publicly if it doesn't bother others.

The measure was approved 132-11 and now goes to the Senate. If approved by senators, then it would be voted on by Missourians.

The state Bill of Rights gives people "a natural and indefeasible right to worship Almighty God" as they choose.

The proposed amendment allows non-disruptive individual or group prayer and requires public schools to display the federal Bill of Rights.

Republican House member Mike McGhee, of Odessa, says the measure doesn't add new rights but better explains existing ones.

During floor debate, critics questioned the need for a clarification.