Governor’s Veto Plans Criticized By Senate Budget Chief

The Senate’s top budget man isn’t pleased with Governor Holden’s decision to veto the bills dealing with public schools and higher education. Senator John Russell of Lebanon, the Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, says he and other lawmakers have worked long and hard on the budget bills, and he views this latest situation as a slap in the face. In addition, Russell has concerns about the constitutionality of the Governor’s call for a 90-day budget for education. Article 4, Section 23 of the Missouri Constitution stipulates the General Assembly shall make appropriations for one or two fiscal years, with the fiscal year beginning on July 1st. Russell says positions are hardening, and he doesn’t see any outcome other than re-passing and sending the Governor the same bills he’s vetoing. This whole effort could wind up in the courts.