Missouri Senate Appropriations Committee to finalize fiscal year 2026 budget by May 9

Missouri senators are racing against the clock to finalize the state operating budget for fiscal year 2026, with a constitutional deadline looming on May 9. Senator Rusty Black, vice chair of the Missouri Senate Appropriations Committee, emphasized the urgency, stating that the upper chamber must complete its work within the next two weeks.

Senator Maggie Nirenberg, also a member of the committee, expressed optimism about the budget proposal being presented to the full Senate. She highlighted key components, including full funding for neighborhood schools, pay increases for frontline workers, and necessary adjustments to eliminate waitlists for vital support services.

Once the Senate finalizes its version of the budget, conference committees will be formed to reconcile any differences with the House of Representatives. The finalized budget will then be sent to the governor for approval, with the new fiscal year set to begin on July 1. The discussions in the Senate underscore a commitment to enhancing education and support services as Missouri prepares for the upcoming fiscal challenges.