Gov. Jay Nixon (PoliticMo Photo/Blake James)

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — As lawmakers continue to negotiate changes to the state’s 2013 budget, Gov. Jay Nixon has weighed in with mixed reaction.

Nixon lauded movement in the legislature to establish a funding source through gaming proceeds for Missouri’s veterans homes.

“While we can never fully repay the sacrifices these heroes made for our country,” Nixon said, “this legislation upholds our commitment to make sure Missouri veterans receive the quality care they need and deserve.”

The bill would allow the state to fund early childhood education, and passage of the bill was part of a deal to add funding to some state colleges and mostly fund Missouri’s blind health care program.

Lawmakers marked $25 million in cash to the program, $3 million short of full funding. Lawmakers made up the gap by setting an eligibility cap for individuals earning up to three times the federal property level.

Nixon believes the cap — which was established through the budgeting process — is invalid.

“We are pleased that the conference committee has restored full funding authority for this vital lifeline for blind Missourians, but the attempt to place additional limitations on eligibility through the budget process does not change existing law,” said Nixon spokesman Sam Murphey.

State lawmakers are require to vote on the budget by Friday evening.