Monday, April 11, 2005
Contact: Jessica Robinson, (573)751-0290
Blunt Signs Supplemental Appropriations Bill
JEFFERSON CITY - Governor Matt Blunt signed the supplemental appropriations bill (House Bill 14) on Saturday, April 9 for the current state budget year, making $217.5 million available for state programs through June 30, 2005.
"I want to thank the budget chairmen, Senator Chuck Gross and Representative Brad Lager, for their leadership in passing the supplemental appropriations bill so quickly," Blunt said. "Thanks to their prompt action, important services to Missouri citizens will continue without interruption."
The supplemental bill contains $190 million to continue support provided by the Department of Social Services such as Medicaid, food stamps, adoption subsidy, juvenile residential treatment, and payments to the blind. In addition, funding is included to operate the Missouri call center that answers questions about benefits for Social Services’ clients. The center was formerly located overseas.
More than $4.5 million is included for the First Steps program, assuring continued services for children with developmental disabilities. Schools will also receive another $1 million to provide services to students who are severely disabled.
The new "All Felon" DNA testing program, created during last year’s legislative session, also received start-up funds. This program increases the database of DNA profiles to include those of all felons, providing a powerful crime-solving tool.