JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — A Missouri program aimed at connecting stroke, heart attack and trauma patients with the best care as soon as possible is in limbo following a budget cut by Gov. Mike Parson.

At issue is about $154,000 vetoed by Parson this fiscal year for a program that designates hospitals as stroke, heart attack and trauma centers. The move spurred backlash from lawmakers, hospitals and groups such as the American Heart Association.

Department of Health and Senior Services Director Randall Williams told frustrated lawmakers on Tuesday that his agency supported cutting the funding...