Governor Nixon cuts additional $204 million from budget
In the summer of 2009, many of you joined us in letting Governor Nixon know that drastically cutting funding for children’s programs was not okay. Nearly 1,000 Missourians signed a petition to let the Governor know the breadth of opposition to his plan. Your voices were heard, and they may soon need to be heard again!
After first quarter state revenue collections came in 10% below last year, Governor Nixon announced another $204 million in budget restrictions in early October, bringing the total amount of budget vetoes and restrictions to nearly $700 million since the Fiscal Year 2010 budget began in July. The October cuts eliminated 700 full and part-time state jobs, cutting off any new clients for mental health services, and reductions to Medicaid provider rates.
Though Missouri has saved some federal stimulus funding to help balance budget shortfalls next year, it likely will not be enough to preserve vital state services while helping Missouri families get back on their feet and into the workforce. An announcement of additional cuts is expected in January 2010. MOCCRRN believes that Missouri can no longer just cut its way out of this budget crisis – lawmakers should consider balanced budget solutions next year that include responsible revenue solutions.
We will continue to work with legislators and Governor Nixon to ensure that child care and early education services will be protected from future cuts and the first to be restored when revenue is available. Sign up now for future legislative updates or news about budget proposals that will impact children’s programs and child care in particular. Even if you’re not a parent, you can join us at the Child Care Aware Parent Network.