JEFFERSON CITY (AP) - An eastern Missouri lawmaker arrested for driving while intoxicated last month has returned to work at the Capitol.

State Rep. Tom Burcham, R-Farmington, was pulled over by Jefferson City police on April 8 and later released after posting $500 bond. The next day, Burcham said he was checking into a St. Louis faith-based treatment center. He has been absent until returning to work Tuesday.

"I told my physician I would do whatever he told me to," Burcham said Wednesday. "Once I was released, I felt that I had a responsibility to get back and represent my district, especially in light of the budget."

Burcham, 34, is an attorney serving his first two-year term in the House. He has filed for re-election this year.

He said he has struggled with a drinking problem that grew worse in recent years.

Burcham said his district has been supportive during this tough time.

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