It's hard to summarize a legislative session. There are a multitude of issues brought forth by a large number of groups and individuals, and we have about five months to sort through it all. The Legislature has to allocate the state budget, and in addition to all this, we were tasked with redrawing congressional districts for Missouri. The combination of these issues and responsibilities made for an unpredictable year, but we were able to successfully pass a state budget, as required by our state Constitution. There were also several of my legislative priorities that have been delivered to the governor's desk.
In Missouri, our budget is required by the state Constitution to be balanced. This ensures not only that our government lives within its means, but also that the budget reflects the true priorities of our state.
This year, we're investing in our children's education by once again fully funding the Foundation Formula for our public K-12 schools. I believe this shows Missouri's continued commitment to providing our students with the best education possible. The budget also provides an additional $214 million in school transportation funding. This funding is incredibly important, especially in our rural districts, to make sure our children make it to and from school safely.
The budget also continues to provide pay increases for many of our hardworking state employees. It also includes investments in important infrastructure needs. The state's FY 2023 operating budget includes more than $49 million for broadband internet expansion and an additional $100 million to maintain our state's low-volume or lettered roads.
Beyond the budget, the General Assembly also passed several important measures. House Bill 2005 aims to protect the property rights of Missouri farmers and ranchers during eminent domain proceedings. Lawmakers were also able to pass HB 1720, an agriculture omnibus bill. This bill restarts a number of effective agriculture tax credit programs, streamlines the regulation of anhydrous ammonia and makes the family farm breeding livestock loan program easier for our state's small farmers to use.
I also carried a bill in the Senate that would refund up to $500 million to the Missouri taxpayers. That bill, HB 2090 originally filed by Rep. Dave Griffith, is the fulfillment of a promise to the people of Missouri that we would not only be good stewards of their tax dollars but also reduce their tax burden whenever possible.
While personal differences split the chamber at times, I was still able to find common ground with senators on the other side of the aisle. I co-sponsored a bipartisan resolution to support the people of Ukraine in their war against Russia.
Although we've just ended our regular session, I'm already looking forward to next year, and continuing my work to represent the common sense values of the 6th District. Thank you for your support and prayers, and God bless you all.
State Sen. Mike Bernskoetter, R-Jefferson City, represents the 6th District and shares his perspective on statehouse issues twice a month.