A major deadline of May 5 faces members of the General Assembly and Gov. Eric Greitens. That’s when lawmakers must pass a budget for the fiscal year that begins in July.The governor had recommended funding cuts for in-home and nursing home care through Medicaid. Then he changed his mind when the state received additional funds from the settlement with tobacco companies. Gov. Greitens also has proposed cutting nearly 10 percent from higher education funding and slashing funding for public school busing. He did suggest more basic aid for K-12 public schools, but not enough to fully fund the amount called for under state law.The Associated Press reported that House Budget Committee Chairman Scott Fitzpatrick wants to end tax credits for elderly and disabled renters to avoid long-term cuts to in-home care rather than relying on the one-time tobacco money. Basic aid for K-12 schools would be fully funded under Fitzpatrick’s plan, and he is recommending smaller cuts to colleges and universities.The new governor’s action on the budget is being watched closely. It will define his position on a number of issues and give notice on his priorities compared to his campaign promises.