By Bill Raack, KWMU
St. Louis – Governor Matt Blunt wants more money for Missouri's colleges and universities, as well as more scholarships and more opportunities for health care students.
Blunt announced those budget plans at the University of Missouri-St. Louis Thursday.
Blunt said he will ask state lawmakers for a 4.4 percent increase in higher education funding, $100 million for financial need scholarships, and $13 million to expand enrollment in health care-related education programs in the state.
"Together these new investments in Missouri students, Missouri schools and health-related professions will create new opportunities for Missourians, making our state a better place to live and work," Blunt said.
The Missouri Democratic Party says that under Blunt, the state ranks last in higher education funding. Democrats call the proposal a re-election campaign stunt.