Increasing Funding for K-12 and Higher Education
As approved by the Missouri General Assembly in May, the state operating budget for the 2020 fiscal year includes funding increases for both K-12 and higher education. I am proud of the Legislature’s ability to deliver greater educational resources for the people of Missouri. Education is one of the most important services a state government can provide. By supporting our public schools, we are supporting the future of our state.
The education portion of the state budget, contained in House Bills 2 and 3, fully funds the school foundation formula for the third year in a row. The foundation formula determines the amount of state aid that is delivered to each K-12 public school throughout the state. Funding the formula is always a priority of the General Assembly, and the health of our state economy has allowed us to fulfill this duty without raising taxes or sacrificing other areas of the budget.
In addition to funding the foundation formula, the budget also grants an additional $10 million to school transportation. This is of particular importance to rural parts of the state, where school districts often encompass a wide geographic area. Quality transportation ensures students can get to school safe and on-time.
For the first time in many years, the budget also increases core funding for public colleges and universities. As lawmakers, we understand these institutions help many people secure in-demand, high-paying jobs. We hope that increasing core funding will keep tuition prices as low as possible for Missourians who want to advance their education and careers.
As always, please feel free to call, email or write with your ideas or concerns. My Capitol office number is (573) 751-1415, my email is dan.hegeman@senate.mo.gov and my mailing address is Room 332, State Capitol Building, Jefferson City, MO 65101.