Last year about this time, I provided an update on the state budget along with a brief primer on the process.

The Missouri House of Representatives completed its work on the state budget this week. The budget contained some good news and some bad news for us at Missouri State.

On the good news side, the budget includes $17.5 million to create the Judith Enyeart Reynolds Complex. The project includes the demolition and replacement of Art Annex, and updates to Craig Hall.

On the bad news side, the approach the House took to funding for public colleges and universities would be very difficult for us to manage. While Gov. Parson recommended a 3% increase in ongoing funding, the House’s version of the bill includes a 2% increase in funding; it made the increase a one-time adjustment rather than ongoing.

For us, the difference between 2% and 3% is about a million dollars. If this version of the budget makes it over the finish line, we’ll have to adjust our budget to reflect that difference – either by reducing the amount of money we’re putting into compensation increases, reducing other spending or increasing tuition more than planned.

We’re cautiously optimistic that the picture will improve as the budget makes its way to the Senate, but we’re preparing for the possibility that my last budget will be a very challenging one.

I’ll continue to keep you updated. The budget bills must be completed by May 10 (the first Friday following the first Monday in May).

Thanks for all you do for Missouri State.

Clif