Ruestman: We cut everything in sight, but we didn't raise taxes

In her latest Ruestman Report, Rep. Marilyn Ruestman, R-Joplin, offers her assessment of the Missouri state budget:

The primary function of the Missouri General Assembly is to pass a budget each year. This year was the toughest year to balance a budget due to the nearly $900 million shortfall. The Republican Majority of the last eight years has been committed to not raising taxes. In years of revenue declines the only way to balance the budget is to either raise taxes or increase cuts. I am proud to say, we (once again) passed a balanced budget with NO TAX INCREASE.


It is difficult to cut any program, knowing that each program is important to some of our constituency. However, as a conservative, I am committed to smaller government, lower taxes and a balanced budget. I am happy to say that at the end of my eight years in the Missouri House of Representatives we have delivered on all of those commitments.

Even during this recession, you can be proud to be a Missourian. With your help, we have become one of the most fiscally sound states. Additionally, Missouri is winning awards for being one of the most transparent governments in the world. It is important for you to have access to and be aware of budget information. Missouri’s fiscal year began July 1. Here is a synopsis of where your money goes:

Where it goes… (out of each dollar)

Social Services 32.9¢

Education 28.3¢

Elementary and Secondary 23.0¢

Higher Education 5.3¢

Transportation 11.3¢

Administration and Employee Benefits 5.1¢

Mental Health 5.1¢

Corrections and Public Safety 5.1¢

Health and Senior Services 4.0¢

Agriculture, Natural Resources and Conservation 2.1¢

Elected Officials, Judiciary, Legislature and Public Defender 1.9¢

Economic Development 1.1¢

State-wide Leasing 0.6¢

Labor and Industrial Relations 0.5¢

Public Debt 0.2¢

Insurance, Financial Institutions and Professional Registration 0.2¢

The total budget for this year is $23,274,922,486.