The Senate worked late into the evening on Monday to finish its version of the state’s operating budget for the next fiscal year. This is one of the most important duties we do each year, and one of the most difficult. It’s not easy balancing the concerns and priorities of 34 separate Senators’ and 163 Representatives’ districts. However, through open debate and compromise we were able to craft a budget that funds the most important functions of our state government.

The Senate’s version of the budget included a $65 million funding increase to the K-12 foundation formula and around a $34 million increase to higher education funding. Providing a quality education is one of the state’s most important obligations. I was happy to see my colleagues reaffirm their commitment to the students of our state.

There were a number of issues that arose during the budget debate, including a lengthy discussion of what are known as solid waste management districts. This program distributes tipping fees, which are collected specifically for allocation to local groups and businesses to promote recycling and increase recycling options in communities.

The Senate’s budget proposal completely eliminated funding for this valuable program. The argument for scrapping this funding centered around two districts in particular that had mismanaged their funds. I, and many of my colleagues, argued that if there’s a problem with specific districts, we should deal with those, not get rid of a program that has been very beneficial to citizens across the state. An amendment was adopted on the floor that restored 50 percent of funding, but I’m hopeful that as we go through the rest of the budget process, we can restore the funding to 100 percent.

The Senate and House will meet next week in conference committees to hammer out the differences between the two versions of the budget. After that, both chambers will have to approve the spending plan before it’s sent to the governor.

On Monday, the Missouri Department of Labor hosted its annual Missouri Workers’ Memorial Day in the rotunda of the State Capitol. The program, which I was honored to take part in, included a video memorial to recognize the men and women who have lost their lives working for the people of Missouri. A number of citizens from our area who tragically lost their lives were honored in the memorial, including Allen Douglas of Desoto, Dale Elam of Bismarck, Chris Parsons of Potosi, Fred Willard of Bonne Terre, and Dylan Woods of Farmington. Andy Gammon’s family attended the event, along with the family of Robert Jett, a local worker who lost his life in a forklift accident. It was a touching program. 

Appropriately enough, the next day the Senate approved House Bill 303, which includes a provision identical to legislation I’m sponsoring this session that designates a portion of Interstate 70 leading up to the new Mississippi River bridge after Andy Gammon, who lost his life while working on the project. The bill now goes back to the House for consideration.

The Senate perfected Senate Bill 437 on Thursday, which implements the higher education funding formula crafted by the Joint Committee on Education. I was proud to be a member of this committee, which spent countless hours reviewing and examining higher education funding across the country to create a formula for Missouri. This comprehensive plan will go far in ensuring higher education funding is divvied up equitably between our state’s colleges and universities.

I was happy to introduce my dad, Leroy Romine, on the Senate floor this week. I don’t get a lot of opportunities to see my family during session, so it was wonderful to have him in town. I also welcomed local radio station KREI/KTJJ to the Capitol. They were in Jefferson City to interview a number of legislators and statewide officials.  If you stop by the Capitol, please make sure to visit my office.

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