SPRINGFIELD, Mo., Jan. 18 (UPI) -- Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon said the state's government was poised for another round of budget cuts that would enable him to hold the line on taxes.
Nixon said in his State of the State address that although unemployment in Missouri was at its lowest in three years, it was still necessary to reduce the state payroll and business taxes further.
"To help more small businesses create jobs and grow, we've begun to phase out the outdated franchise tax on thousands of Missouri businesses," Nixon said. "That means more money to their bottom line -- and more jobs for Missouri workers."
Nixon, a Democrat, said his policies were increasing employment in Missouri, particularly in the auto industry. However he insisted Missouri taxpayers could not endure any sort of increase.
Missourians may feel the effects of Nixon's proposals more keenly if they have children in college. The governor said he wanted to "provide record funding for our K-12 classrooms because that's the right thing to do."
Higher education, however, will be again asked to cut costs.
"Investing in college affordability is critical for continued economic growth, but we have to balance this budget," Nixon said. "And we all know that means we'll have to cut in other areas."
