A Missouri senator wants the state auditor to analyze the cost of the death penalty. Democrat Sen. Joe Keaveny, of St. Louis, presented the measure Wednesday to a Senate panel. The legislation would require the state auditor to compile a report comparing the costs of capital punishment with the costs of a life prison sentence. The report would also include a cost estimate of cases where the death penalty was sought, but ultimately not carried out. Supporters said the measure could lead to a discussion on whether the death penalty is an appropriate use of state money. No one testified in opposition to Keaveny's bill at the hearing.The auditor's analysis would cost an estimated $170,000 over two years and would be due to lawmakers in 2015.

 

AP