JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon has vetoed a bill that would cut the amount of time low-income families can receive welfare benefits.

Nixon announced his veto Thursday while describing the legislation as “a misguided measure that punishes children.”

The bill would reduce the lifetime limit for benefits under the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program from five years to three years and nine months, starting next January. The Department of Social Services estimates more than 3,100 families would lose benefits.

It also would drop people from the program for failing to meet work requirements.

Republicans who control the Legislature say the cutbacks could spur parents to become self-sufficient while saving the state money.

A veto override would require a two-thirds vote of both chambers.