Budget writers in the Missouri Senate have officially begun the process of crafting the state’s proposed $52 billion budget. The Senate Appropriations Committee has launched a series of hearings in an effort to make changes to the blueprint approved by the House. One major change being considered is fully funding the school foundation formula, which is currently about $300 million short. The Senate plan also includes restoring a salary increase for state workers and addressing Governor Mike Kehoe’s controversial plan to spend $50 million on a private school voucher program.
The Missouri Legislature is facing challenges due to flattening tax revenues and possible future federal budget cuts. Surplus funds are expected to decrease significantly, and tax cuts being considered could further impact state revenues. Lawmakers must also account for potential cuts to federal funding for programs like Medicaid and the arts.
Overall, the proposed budget includes funding increases for public colleges and universities, airport improvements, roadbuilding projects, and more. The Senate Appropriations Committee is expected to wrap up its work this week, with the full Senate set to review the spending plan in late April. The budget legislation is known as House Bills 2-20.
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