Missouri governor would control St. Louis police under bill

(AP) — Missouri’s governor would once again have control over St. Louis police under a bill advancing in the state House. 

The Republican-led House on Wednesday gave initial approval to the legislation. 

A state commission oversaw the St. Louis Police Department dating back to the Civil War until 2013, when voters statewide gave power back to the city. 

Primarily Republican supporters say the city is failing to combat crime. 

Black St. Louis Democrats are decrying the majority white, Republican-led Legislature for trying to take away control from Black leaders in the majority Black city of St. Louis.