Missouri Cuts Books for Kids | Kansas City News

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in Missouri is on the brink after state funding was slashed from $6 million to $2 million, threatening its survival past 2026 and halting new enrollments. The Dollywood Foundation blames the state for breaking its funding promise, while Governor Mike Kehoe cites budget constraints but vows to support literacy. State Senator Maggie Nurrenbern fiercely criticizes the cut, calling the program proven and vital, urging lawmakers to restore funding. With nearly 170,000 kids currently receiving monthly books, the loss could undo years of progress in early childhood education. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/49917d1e3f45c468