Speaker of the House Ron Richard, R-Joplin, is opposed to Nixon's effort to rein in tax credits. He defends them as an important part of economic development.

Rep. John Diehl, R-Town and Country, favors a go-slow approach on overhauling tax credits. "I don't think there's anything we have to have if it means gutting the programs we have now," he said. "I don't see the House rushing to judgment on any of this."

The challenge is mostly one of time. As directed in the state constitution, the session ends at 6 p.m. Friday.