Missouri Governor Vetoes $550 Million in State Spending Despite $8 Billion Surplus

Missouri Governor Mike Parson has vetoed $550 million in state spending from the $51.8 billion budget approved by lawmakers, citing the need to maintain the state's strong financial position despite an $8 billion surplus. Parson made 201 vetoes, reducing some lines and eliminating items entirely, with a focus on earmarked spending. While he approved several initiatives, including expanding a plan for widening portions of Interstate 70, Parson also cut funding for road projects and a loan for pollution controls. The governor emphasized spending on transportation and infrastructure, but his veto pen hit some projects not in the Missouri Department of Transportation's plan or identified as regional priorities.