JEFFERSON CITY — Senator Bob Dixon, R-Springfield, recently filed Senate Joint Resolution 56, a proposed constitutional amendment to authorize a Twenty-First Century Infrastructure Fund and the issuance of bonds for infrastructure improvements, including capital improvements for Missouri public colleges and universities and state buildings, as well as information technology investments.   

“Missouri citizens and businesses operate in a digital world,” pointed out Sen. Dixon.  “They expect the same access with state government. When we talk about public infrastructure, we aren’t just talking about buildings anymore. Being responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars depends on wise investments.  We must plan for the next century, not the last century.” 

In recent years, the General Assembly has considered the possibility of creating a new State Building Fund by constitutional amendment. In 1982, Missouri voters approved the Third State Building Fund. Between 1983 and 1987, approximately $636 million in bonds were issued, with the funds being distributed for capital improvements, maintenance and repair. Today, the state has the advantage of far lower interest rates and a AAA credit rating. 

“I filed SJR 56 to prompt a broader discussion about investment in digital infrastructure as well as ‘bricks-and-mortar’ projects,” stated Sen. Dixon. “As a member of the Interim Committee on Capital Improvement Assessment and Planning, I have been able to assess the state of our public infrastructure. The need for these improvements is clear, and the time is right, with the state’s existing bond obligations retired and low interest rates.”