Wednesday, May 9, 2007
Contact: Jessica Robinson, 573-751-0290
Blunt Pleased with Budget’s Commitment to Missouri Agriculture, Natural Resources
JEFFERSON CITY– Gov. Matt Blunt today lauded the Missouri General Assembly for passing a budget that both protects Missouri’s natural resources and supports Missouri farm families through initiatives such as continued full funding of both the ethanol and biodiesel producer funds.
“Together we have made great strides to renew the state’s commitment to agriculture, and this budget continues that progress to support Missouri’s farm families,” Blunt said. “I applaud the General Assembly for again sending me a budget that makes key investments in Missouri agriculture and also supports important Natural Resources priorities.”
House Bill 6 provides among other things the governor’s recommendations for:
- $21.5 million increase to the Missouri Qualified Biodiesel Producer Incentive Fund to honor obligations for biodiesel production payments
- $6.4 million increase to the Missouri Qualified Fuel Ethanol Producer Incentive Fund to honor obligations for ethanol producer payments
- $108,100 increase to expand the state’s Meat and Poultry Inspection program
- $460,213 increase to provide additional support for safe drinking water testing
After all budget bills are passed and submitted to the governor, the governor’s office will conduct a full review of the state’s budget to ensure it remains balanced and accountable to taxpayers before taking any action on the bills.