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.
