(Photo/House Communications)

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — Members of the Missouri General Assembly passed their $24 billion budget Thursday after resolving many of the funding issues that have stalled the body in recent weeks.

Lawmakers added funding to elementary and higher education, mental health and social services, while cutting nearly millions from transportation and nearly $10 agriculture spending.

Lawmakers had been divided over how to fund the state’s $28 million blind health care program and maintain level funding for higher education, after the Gov. Jay Nixon suggested a significant cut in funding in his budget.

Under their budget, the programs would be funded by funds made available after shifting veterans home funds to early childhood education, as well as by placing an eligibility cap on higher earners.

The legislation will head to Nixon’s desk for approval.