Missouri House Republicans passed a $47.9 billion state operating budget for Fiscal Year 2026, emphasizing record investments in public education, law enforcement, transportation, and family support services. The budget, which also maintains nearly $2 billion in reserves, now heads to the Senate for further consideration. The legislature has a deadline of May 9 to finalize the spending plan.
“This is a balanced and fiscally responsible budget,” said House Speaker Jon Patterson (R-Lee’s Summit). “It funds the needs of Missourians while protecting the state’s long-term financial health.”
The plan includes the largest increase to the K-12 foundation formula in more than two decades, alongside major investments in college campuses, teacher pay, and school transportation.
Education Funding Hits Historic Highs
More than $4 billion in state funding is earmarked for public education. That includes a $200 million increase to the foundation formula, $376 million for K-12 transportation (with $15 million in new funding), and $50 million to expand the Empowerment Scholarship Program—also known as MO Scholars.
The budget also includes $33.4 million for the Teacher Baseline Salary Grant Program, $27 million for capital improvements in higher education, and a $16.8 million core funding increase for colleges and universities.
“We have fully funded last year’s education bill (SB 727), and invested in programs that provide families more choices and students more opportunities,” said Budget Chair Dirk Deaton (R-Seneca).
Public Safety and World Cup Preparation
Public safety initiatives receive a substantial boost, including a 6.8% pay raise for Missouri State Highway Patrol troopers and state park rangers. The budget also funds a $10 million “Blue Shield” grant program to support local law enforcement training and equipment.
With Kansas City set to host matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, lawmakers approved $25 million to enhance public safety, transportation, and infrastructure in preparation for the global event.
Other notable allocations include $12.8 million for a new crime lab in Cape Girardeau, $5 million for volunteer fire departments, and $4 million to support a new police training facility in O’Fallon.
Transportation and Infrastructure Investments
The budget provides $70 million in new general revenue for highway improvements across the state, plus $20 million for rural low-volume and lettered roads. An additional $10 million is allocated for Missouri river port infrastructure, while $1 million will fund a flood risk and mitigation study on the River des Peres.
Family and Health Services Support
The budget increases support for maternal health, foster care, and workforce development in healthcare. This includes:
• $4 million more for the Alternatives to Abortion program
• $2 million increase for Pregnancy Resource Centers
• $1 million in nursing incentive grants
• $750,000 to help place foster children with extended family
• $250,000 for newborn safety incubators
“This budget looks beyond just the numbers—it invests in the people and future of Missouri,” said Deaton. “We’re prioritizing education, safety, and families, while ensuring our budget remains sustainable.”
The Senate is expected to begin debating the appropriations bills in the coming weeks. Both chambers must reach a final agreement by May 9.
Representative Philip Oehlerking, a Republican, represents part of St. Louis County (District 100) in the Missouri House of Representatives. He was elected to his first two-year term in November 2022.
Prior to his service in the legislature, Oehlerking worked at the Missouri Higher Education Loan Authority (MOHELA). He also spent two years working for the Show-Me Institute.
A graduate of the University of Missouri – St. Louis, Oehlerking received his bachelor’s degree in Political Science in 2015.
Oehlerking resides in Ballwin with his wife and daughter, and he has an active role as deacon at Trinity Presbyterian Church.
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