By AP/KWMU
Jefferson City, MO – The Missouri House has sent an $18.5 billion budget to the Senate.
And for the first time in state history the proposal gives almost no direction on how to spend the money.
Critics say majority Republicans are passing the buck on spending cuts. They say the House chose to let either senators or government bureaucrats decide where to cut.
But Republicans say their innovative approach sets spending limits without new taxes.
As passed by the House, the budget for the fiscal year starting July first is about $700 million smaller than proposed by
Democratic Governor Holden.
State budgets historically allot specific amounts for the government's thousands of programs. The budget passed this evening
only provides agencies with lump sums.