Who is responsible for the state's budget in Missouri?

The Governor of Missouri is responsible for preparing and submitting the state's budget. This role is significant as it involves assessing the financial needs of various state departments and agencies and forecasting revenue. The Governor's budget proposal sets the framework for the state's financial priorities and informs the General Assembly's discussions and decisions during the budget approval process.

While the General Assembly is involved in reviewing, amending, and ultimately approving the budget, it is the Governor who initiates the budget process. The State Auditor, on the other hand, is responsible for examining the financial statements and ensuring that state funds are managed appropriately, but they do not create the budget. The Treasurer is responsible for managing the state’s funds and ensuring fiscal responsibility, but they do not draft or propose the budget either.