Urge Gov. Kehoe to Fund MO Transit in 2026

Your voice is needed to secure critical funding for public transit providers in the Show-Me State!

Key Points

• Members of the Missouri Legislature's Conference Committee approved HB4, which sets aside $4.2 million for public transportation.
  • According to MO Public Transit Association [MPTA], "This represents a 37% reduction from 2025 funding levels and a 64% reduction in state transit investment since Governor Kehoe took office."
• Missourians for Responsible Transportation is joining MPTA and transit advocates across the state to speak up for this, but we need your help.
• Contact Governor Mike Kehoe’s office to urge him to keep the funding in place.

What’s going on with Missouri transit funding?

Missouri transit providers have struggled to obtain state funding resources–already the lowest per capita among bordering states. In 2025, Governor Mike Kehoe issued a line-item veto in the state budget that cut transit funding by an additional 42%. Going a step further in 2026, the Governor proposed to cut funding by 85% from 2024.

Less funding for transit hurts Missouri in several ways:

• Everyday Missourians aren’t able to get to work, school, medical appointments, and more.
• Transit providers struggle to keep service afloat and to keep vehicles in safe working condition.
• The state loses a competitive edge for attracting business and is underprepared for major events like the World Cup.

Where is transit funding in the legislative process?

Now that the 2026 legislative session is wrapping up, the Missouri Legislature is proposing the budget bill HB4 through a Conference Committee, which is made up of members from both the House and Senate who work together to hammer out differences on legislation before sending it to the governor’s desk. 

The Conference Committee voted to offer these resources to Missouri transit agencies:

• $2,5 million for transit operating assistance
• $1.7 million from the state transportation fund for transit

Combined, the funds would amount to $4.2 million for public transit in Missouri. While this is a step back from previous funding levels, it would still serve as a critical lifeline for transit providers (especially in rural parts of the state).

How can I support transit funding?

The transit funding included in HB4 isn’t guaranteed. We need YOU to send a message to Gov. Kehoe that public transportation needs his support. Here’s how:

Reach out to Governor Kehoe

Encourage your friends and neighbors to do the same

HB4 presents an opportunity for Missouri to retain essential public transportation services. If these funds are adopted, they would extend a critical lifeline to transit providers across the state and the people who depend on them. We have a real chance to help our neighbors, but we can’t do that without your help. Take action today and help spread the word!