Wrap: Think twice before you grab that margarine from the store shelf -- you're purchasing an illegal substance.

Due to several provisions passed starting in the late 1800s, imitation butter was banned from being sold in Missouri stores.

But Springfield Representative Sara Lampe has introduced a bill to repeal this law after hearing from constituents that they wanted fewer laws on the books.

Lampe said the law has served it's purpose, but it's time to go.

Reporting from the state Capitol, I'm Rebecca Beitsch, Newsradio 1120 KMOX.

Wrap: Sure it's easier to spread, and some say it's better for you, but margarine is illegal in the state of Missouri.

In the early 1900s Missouri legislators were fearful of the product as a threat to the dairy industry and consequently banned it.

But a trip to the store this century shows the product is being widely sold.

Springfield Representative Sara Lampe said she got the idea to repeal the law after asking constituents for bill ideas.

Lampe said the Department of Agriculture is now responsible for enforcing the law, but many of them have never even heard of it.

From the state Capitol, I'm Rebecca Beitsch, Newsradio 1120 KMOX.