Budget Woes Dominating Legislature

Budget problems still dominate this legislative session. House Speaker Jim Kreider of Nixa says putting together next year’s budget remains his number one priority.He says public schools need $200-Million more to be fullyfunded even as lawmakers try to find $400-Million more in cuts. Kreider has challenged Republicans to come to the budget table with ideas. Republican whip Charlie Shields of St. Joseph insists the focus must be long-range. He says it’s time for a private commission to look atreforming state government. Shields says all revenue projections indicate flat growth for a few more years, which means spending must be cut back.