Understanding Missouri’s Budget: Mastering the State’s Financial Framework

Join us for this informative program, where participants will explore the intricate process of how Missouri’s state budget is developed, delving into the core concepts of revenue forecasting and expenditure planning. You’ll gain a clear understanding of how fiscal priorities are set, empowering citizens, policymakers, and professionals to grasp the financial framework shaping Missouri’s future.

Additionally, participants will:

  • Discover what’s included in Missouri’s budget—and what’s left out— you’ll learn about key budget components like education, healthcare, and infrastructure, and why certain items are excluded.

  • The budget approval process, spotlighting the Conference Committee’s structure and how it favors the big government legislators.

  • Gain a perspective on the governor’s line-item veto and its impact on Missouri’s final budget.

This program will equip participants with the knowledge to confidently engage in discussions about Missouri’s financial priorities and their impact on schools, roads, and public services. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from one of Missouri’s key budget architects!

Dates and Locations:

Kansas City Saturday, September 20, 2025 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Western Missouri GOP 1140 W 40 Highway Blue Springs, MO

St. Louis Saturday, October 4, 2025 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Pillar Foundation 15820 Clayton Road Ellisville, MO

A networking lunch will be provided after each program concludes.

"Understanding Missouri's Budget," led by Representative Darin Chappell, a member of the Missouri Budget Committee and Chairman of the Subcommittee on Appropriations for Health, Mental Health, and Social Services, and a noted fiscal conservative.

Registration:

  • $35.00 per person for Freedom Principle MO and Missouri 82 Alliance Members

  • $75.00 Non-Member Participants

Understanding Missouri’s Constitution: From Foundations to Modern Challenges

Journey through Missouri’s foundational document with our program, "Understanding Missouri's Constitution," led by Representative Darin Chappell, a former adjunct professor at Missouri State University in constitutional studies. Participants will explore the essentials of the Missouri Constitution, uncovering its core principles and structure.

 Participants will gain a clear understanding of how this document shapes Missouri’s governance, making it an invaluable experience for citizens, students, and policy enthusiasts eager to grasp the state’s legal foundation.

 Additionally, participants will:

  • Dive into the complex process of amending Missouri’s Constitution and the unique challenges surrounding Initiative Petition (IP) Reform.

  • Learn the mechanisms for constitutional amendments, including the roles of the legislature and citizen-led initiatives, while highlighting the political and procedural hurdles that make IP Reform particularly contentious.

  • Gain critical insights into the Missouri Supreme Court’s role and its controversial tendency to interpret the constitution in ways that some argue diverge from its original intent.

This program empowers you to engage confidently in discussions about Missouri’s constitutional framework and its impact on governance, all under the guidance of a seasoned expert who bridges theory and practice. Join us to interpret Missouri’s Constitution and to learn from one of Missouri’s key constitutional experts!

Meeting Location:

Saturday, October 11, 2025 Missouri River Regional Library Art Gallery 214 Adams Street Jefferson City, MO

Registration:

  • $35.00 for Freedom Principle MO and Missouri 82 Alliance Members

  • $75.00 for Non-Members