A Pike County lawmaker’s plan to give Missouri communities another economic development tool has taken a step forward.

The House has cleared the way for a final reading of Jim Hansen’s proposal on community improvement districts.

The Frankford Republican wants to give all Missouri cities the right to set up the tax-supported districts. Right now, only Kansas City may file the necessary petitions.

Community improvement districts are not-for-profits or separate political subdivisions organized to finance wide-ranging public works projects.

If approved by voters in the proposed district, a tax could be levied to fund development efforts. Should voters reject the idea, it could not be resubmitted in the same area for a year.