Safeguard Missouri's Blind Pension Fund

HJR 147 is a proposed amendment to the Missouri Constitution that would change how the Blind Pension Fund is funded by the state. It would repeal the current constitutional requirement for a state property tax levy for the Blind Pension Fund and replace it with a requirement that the General Assembly make an annual appropriation for the fund instead. The annual appropriation would have to be at least the same amount appropriated for the 2026 to 2027 fiscal year, and the proposal would be submitted to Missouri voters at the November 2026 general election (or a special election called for that purpose).

The resolution also states that any balance left after paying pensions may be appropriated to support the Commission for the Blind.

Dear [Lawmaker],

I am writing to share my support for HJR 147, which proposes a constitutional amendment to change how the Blind Pension Fund is financed in Missouri. This resolution would require the General Assembly to fund the blind pension through an annual appropriation rather than relying on a dedicated property tax.

HJR 147 also establishes an important funding safeguard by requiring that future appropriations be no less than the amount provided in the 2026–2027 fiscal year. This approach places responsibility for blind pension funding directly with the legislature while ensuring a guaranteed minimum level of support for blind Missourians.

I respectfully ask for clarification on whether cost-of-living increases would be considered or provided for the blind pension after fiscal year 2027. Ongoing adjustments are critical to ensure that the pension keeps pace with rising costs and continues to meet the basic needs of blind individuals.

Thank you for your time and consideration of this important issue.

Sincerely,
______

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