Changes the definition of "qualified student" for purposes of Missouri empowerment scholarship accounts

This bill modifies the definition of a "qualified student" within Missouri's empowerment scholarship program to expand eligibility for families using state funds for private education. Under the new rules, students from households earning less than 200% of the free lunch income threshold would qualify if they either attended public school for at least one semester in the last year or are entering kindergarten or first grade. Additionally, the legislation clarifies that students with approved Individualized Education Plans under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act remain eligible regardless of their prior school attendance. The bill also updates the list of approved private schools to include charter schools, public schools, and virtual schools, provided they do not discriminate based on race, color, or national origin.