HB 3221 prohibits state funding for college degree programs classified as "low-earning outcome" under federal law (Section 84001 of Pub. L. 119-21). It directly affects public colleges and students enrolled in these specific programs by blocking state financial aid, operational funding, grants, and facilities support for them. The bill requires the state higher education board to annually review federal determinations of such programs and enforce the funding ban. It also mandates yearly public reports tracking which programs are excluded, enforcement actions, and fiscal impacts on state budgets. This policy change targets funding allocation, not program availability or student eligibility.
SB 1729 requires Missouri high schools to administer college and career readiness assessments, including a career-focused test leading to a nationally recognized work readiness certificate, before graduation. Students can choose between taking the ACT assessment or a WorkKeys test (which leads to a National Career Readiness Certificate), but cannot take both for the same assessment cycle. Public colleges and universities may accept WorkKeys credentials as credit toward technical degrees. The bill affects all Missouri public high school students and establishes a choice between two assessment pathways for career readiness.
This bill requires all public high schools to administer career readiness assessments, such as the WorkKeys test (which leads to a nationally recognized career certificate), before students graduate. Students who complete WorkKeys are exempt from taking the ACT assessment. School districts may offer additional free assessments using state funds. It also establishes that WorkKeys certificates can count as credit toward technical college degrees.
HB 3239 creates a state-funded program to help Missouri adults (21+ without a high school diploma) earn diplomas through virtual learning. It establishes "adult virtual programs" offered by school districts or public colleges, allowing eligible adults to enroll in state-approved online courses. Key provisions include funding providers 14% of the state’s funding level per completed course (capped at the full funding amount), prohibiting school districts from reporting these students for standard enrollment reports, and defining terms like "career pathways coursework" and "stackable credentials" to align education with job training. The bill directly affects adult learners seeking diplomas, providers of virtual programs, and the state education department managing funds.
SB 1778 requires public schools to incorporate personal finance education into their curriculum. It directly affects all public school students by mandating that schools teach topics such as budgeting, saving, and debt management. The key provision establishes a general requirement for schools to include this education, though the abstract does not specify exact grade levels or detailed content. This policy change applies to all public school districts and educators responsible for implementing the curriculum.
HB 2772 establishes the "Youth Workforce Development Program" to provide job training, certifications, and life skills to at-risk youth aged 12-21 in counties with over 1 million residents or cities outside counties. The program, administered by the Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development, offers vocational training, high school diplomas, internships with local businesses, and mental health support - specifically requiring juvenile detention facilities to provide these services to youth held there. A dedicated state fund finances the program, covering costs like transportation, childcare, mental health services, and internship stipends, with annual reports tracking participant employment rates and recidivism. The program targets youth involved in juvenile justice, those with school suspensions, homelessness, or other risk factors, aiming to improve workforce readiness and reduce future system involvement.
HB 2680 requires Missouri high school career and technical education (CTE) programs to offer courses leading to insurance licensing and certification. The bill mandates that the state education department develop a model curriculum framework for insurance certification, to be available for use starting in the 2027-28 school year. By the 2028-29 school year, all CTE programs must adopt this framework or a substantially similar one. This policy directly affects Missouri high school students enrolled in CTE programs, providing a structured pathway to obtain insurance industry credentials.
HB 2097 converts a temporary pilot program for agricultural education in elementary schools into a statewide program, effective for the 2027-28 school year. Public elementary schools can voluntarily apply to participate, with participating schools required to implement and fully fund the program for at least three years. The program must include grade-appropriate instruction, collaborative learning activities, and career development opportunities. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education will oversee implementation, evaluate the program’s impact, and report results to relevant legislative committees.
HB 2151 modifies Missouri's Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant program to provide state-funded grants for residents pursuing education or training in high-demand occupations. It creates eligibility for "eligible apprentices" (in approved U.S. Department of Labor programs) and "eligible students" (25+ or without recent education) who meet income limits ($100,000 joint/$50,000 individual, adjusted annually for inflation), Missouri residency, and program requirements. Grants cover related costs like tools, books, and uniforms, with funding capped at four semesters or a bachelor's degree. The Higher Education Coordinating Board administers the program, designating eligible fields annually based on workforce shortages.
HB 1627 creates a new "Career and Technical Education Advisory Council" within Missouri's Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. The council, composed of 16 appointed members (including business representatives, educators, student organization advisors, community college reps, and legislative appointees), will develop a statewide strategic plan for career and technical education programs. It must identify service gaps, recommend legislative improvements, oversee student organization funds, and provide annual reports to education officials. The bill also requires the council to post meeting materials and decisions online 48 hours after meetings, ensuring public transparency in its work. This bill directly affects Missouri's career and technical education programs, students, educators, and businesses involved in workforce development.
