It's a fair question that has a simple answer at least for the cynics among us - money.

The pharmaceutical lobby doesn't want the law because it has the potential to hurt sales and profits. And they wield a lot of clout in Jefferson City. Many of those lobbyists have given handsomely to the coffers of quite a few of our lawmakers.

As we've noted before, its going to take some grit and courage for lawmakers to find the will to get a law passed even with the support of a growing coalition of law enforcement officials that includes Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster. Requiring a prescription for some cold and allergy medicines containing pseudophedrine is controversial. It is an inconvenience to many who use those drugs. That much is clear.

But we feel it's time Missouri got serious about confronting a methamphetamine epidemic that has wreaked havoc with public health and spread crime throughout our state for far too many years.

The Union Board of Alderman recognized this and found that courage and grit to deal with the problem in their city.

Good for them.