Missouri Senate rejects increase to school funding despite shortfall in state payments
The Missouri Senate approved a K-12 education spending plan that uses $118 million from the Missouri State Capitol Commission to close a gap in the foundation formula, despite predicted shortfalls in lottery and casino tax revenue. The plan differs from the House budget, with changes including reversing a higher education funding overhaul and restoring child care subsidies.
The Missouri Senate approved a K-12 education spending plan that dips into $118 million set aside for state Capitol Building renovations. State Sen. Rusty Black, chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, said he received no assurance from House Budget Committee Chairman Dirk Deaton or Gov. Mike Kehoe that the diversion will be approved. The plan also adds $15.2 million to school transportation funding. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education predicts a $138 million shortfall from lottery, cigarette tax, and gaming funds, reducing the state adequacy target from $7,145 to $6,900. The Senate budget differs from the House plan, reversing a higher education funding overhaul and restoring child care subsidies. The 12 spending bills, including the education department appropriation, were approved Wednesday in the Senate.
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