Education

Governor Parson Takes Action on FY24 State Operating Budget Bills

JUNE 30, 2023

 — Today, Governor Mike Parson signed the Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24) state operating and capital improvement budget bills, approving historic investments in the future of Missouri, including infrastructure, workforce, education systems, early childhood programs, and public safety resources.

"With this budget, our administration has done the right thing – the conservative thing – to make strategic investments and maintain responsible spending," Governor Parson said. "Missouri's economy is strong. Our revenues are up, businesses are growing and investing, and we maintain a historic revenue surplus, but we must not spend just for the sake of spending. When faced with this generational opportunity, we've cut taxes, put hard-earned dollars back in Missourians pockets, and invested in long-awaited projects that will improve the lives of Missourians for years to come. That's what real, responsible conservatism looks like, and we aren't done yet."

"We want to thank all of the legislators who helped pass this balanced budget that continues Missouri's strong financial position and invests in Missourians both today and tomorrow," Governor Parson continued.

The Missouri FY24 state operating budget is approximately $51.8 billion, including $15.2 billion in general revenue. Additionally, Governor Parson issued 201 line-item vetoes, totaling $555.3 million. To view the complete list of budget vetoes, click here

During his 2023 State of the State Address, Governor Parson again called on the General Assembly to invest in infrastructure projects all across the state, including making it a priority to expand Interstate 70 to six lanes. The FY24 budget bills include billions of dollars for critical infrastructure projects:

  • $2.8 billion to expand and rebuild I-70 across the state from Kansas City to St. Louis;
  • $379 million to boost road and bridge projects within the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program;
  • $248 million for broadband deployment in unserved and underserved communities; and
  • $60 million for safety improvements at railroad crossings.

Governor Parson understands that for the next generations of Missourians to achieve and maintain their American Dream, they must have the necessary education and skills to meet the demands of the future. The FY24 budget prioritizes investments in both education and workforce development systems to provide Missourians with the tools they need to succeed: 

  • $3.6 billion to again fully fund the K-12 Foundation Formula for the fifth year in a row;
  • $288.7 million for capital improvement projects at public higher education institutions;
  • $233 million to fully fund school transportation needs for the second year in a row;
  • $70.8 million core funding increase for state higher education institutions;
  • $60 million to invest in semiconductor production research, development, and skills training;
  • $38 million for the fourth year of MoExcels projects and employer-driven workforce training investments; 
  • $32 million for the Career Ladder program to reward educators who go above and beyond normal duties;  
  • Full funding for the Teacher Baseline Salary Grant Program which increases baseline K-12 educator pay to $38,000 per year (participating schools will no longer have a grant match requirement); and
  • $3.5 million for Apprenticeship Missouri and Youth Apprenticeships; 

In his State of the State Address, Governor Parson also emphasized the need to support early childhood programs. The General Assembly agreed and funded Governor Parson's recommendations: 

  • $78 million to increase rates for child care providers;
  • $56 million for public and charter schools to provide Pre-Kindergarten programs to all students qualifying for free and reduced lunch; and
  • $26 million for private child care providers to offer Pre-Kindergarten programs to students qualifying for free and reduced lunch.

As a former sheriff, Governor Parson appreciates the need to continually support public safety efforts. Ensuring Missourians are safe, whether in their home, at work, or in school, is critically important. In the FY24 budget, Governor Parson approved several key items to improve safety and support communities:

  • $50 million for a second round of school safety grants;
  • $20 million for grant funding for first responders;
  • $13.1 million for targeted salary increases for the Missouri State Highway Patrol;
  • $11 million to upgrade Missouri State Highway Patrol equipment;
  • $1 million to continue the Missouri Blue Scholarship program;
  • $1 million to further support the 988 Crisis Hotline; and
  • $250,000 for the statewide School Safety Tipline.

In order to increase opportunities for Missourians' success, state government must also look to continually improve the services it provides to citizens. This year, Governor Parson is approving needed upgrades and investments in state government services: 

  • $300 million for a new mental health hospital in Kansas City;
  • $33.3 million for reconstruction and reform at the Missouri Children's Division;
  • $17 million for MO HealthNet eligibility redeterminations;
  • $7.2 million for the construction of a new Division of Youth Services center in St. Louis;
  • $4.4 million to implement the Maternal Mortality Prevention plan; and
  • $4.3 million to increase the number of Youth Behavioral Health Liaisons statewide.

To view the FY24 state operating budget bills, click here

State Awards $20 Million to Nearly Two Dozen Postsecondary Institutions for Workforce Innovation

DECEMBER 8, 2022

 — Today, Governor Mike Parson announced that the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development (MDHEWD) has awarded $20 million in funding to nearly two dozen postsecondary institutions to provide high-demand career training for new and underrepresented populations and to address the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on agriculture and supply chains.

The Missouri General Assembly appropriated the funding to MDHEWD for the Private MoExcels and Agriculture Innovation & Workforce grant programs during the 2022 legislative session. The grants are funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and were recommended in Governor Parson's Fiscal Year 2023 budget proposal.

“These funds are yet another opportunity to help keep our economy moving forward,” Governor Parson said. “These grants will allow Missouri colleges and universities to expand our workforce, particularly in entrepreneurship and other careers where we are seeing growth. In addition, the innovative work of these schools will not only educate more agricultural experts but will help us address the needs of Missouri's number one economic driver.”  

A total of $10 million in Private MoExcels grants were awarded to 17 institutions. Accredited private, not-for-profit institutions of higher education in Missouri were eligible for the grant and could request up to $1 million, which must be matched on a dollar-for-dollar basis.

Funds from a Private MoExcels grant may be used for outreach and recruitment efforts, student support services, professional and curriculum development, construction/renovation, and the purchase of equipment.

“The results produced by these grants will provide excellent opportunities for students across Missouri who are pursuing postsecondary education in a variety of high demand fields,” said Leroy Wade, interim commissioner of MDHEWD. “This will also be another step in helping our department achieve its goal of Missouri being the best in the Midwest in educational attainment and workforce participation by 2030, as well as its goals for equity in education.”

A total of $10 million in Agriculture Innovation & Workforce Development awards were granted to six institutions for projects. Public institutions of higher education in Missouri were eligible for the grant and were able to request up to $2 million, which must be matched on a dollar-for-dollar basis.

Funds from an Agriculture Innovation & Workforce Development grant may be used for outreach and recruitment efforts, professional and curriculum development, construction/renovation, and the purchase of equipment.

To view grant recipients and specific award amounts, click here

 

Governor Parson Announces Career and Technical Education Grants

NOVEMBER 29, 2022

 — The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has awarded several Missouri Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs with grant dollars to further support the important work that these programs do to ensure all Missouri students are prepared for success upon graduation and further contribute to developing Missouri’s workforce.

"Career and technical education is critical to our workforce development goals here in the State of Missouri," Governor Parson said. "Every day the necessity for a post secondary degree, trade, or industry recognized credential is growing for good-paying jobs across the state, and we want to support Missourians as they seek to learn new skills, especially in our career and technical education programs." 

Missouri’s Area Career Center Opportunity (MACCO) Grant provides funding to enhance the state’s CTE capacity by providing more opportunities for CTE students while updating and modernizing career centers’ infrastructure and equipment.

MACCO is funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (APRA) and was included in Governor Parson's Fiscal Year 2023 budget proposal to the General Assembly. MACCO grants local education agencies (LEAs) up to $400,000 for the following purposes:

  • Create new high-demand and emerging programs
  • Construct a new area career center building
  • Renovate or build an addition to an existing area career center
  • Update or expand current CTE programs
  • Improve infrastructure for safety and equipment needs
  • Upgrade equipment and instructional technology

The grant’s funds must be used to enhance or extend area career centers’ capacities to increase students’ knowledge and skills needed to gain employment in current or emerging fields, continue their education, or re-train for new business and industry opportunities. The grant required LEAs to submit an application and match 25 percent of the awarded MACCO funds. 

Grant recipients and award totals are as follows:

Arcadia Valley Career Center, Ironton, $400,000.00

Boonslick Technical Education Center, Boonville, $400,000.00

Cape Girardeau Career & Technology Center, Cape Girardeau, $400,000.00

Career and Technology Center at Fort Osage, Independence, $400,000.00

Carrollton Area Career Center, Carrollton, $400,000.00

Carthage Technical Center, Carthage, $400,000.00

Cass Career Center, Harrisonville, $385,500.00

Clinton Technical School, Clinton, $400,000.00

Columbia Area Career Center, Columbia, $400,000.00

Crowder College Technical Education Center, Neosho, $400,000.00

Current River Career Center, Doniphan, $400,000.00

Dallas County Technical Center, Buffalo, $400,000.00

Davis H. Hart Career Center, Mexico, $234,000.00

Eldon Career Center, Eldon, $400,000.00

Excelsior Springs Area Career Center, Excelsior Springs, $400,000.00

Four Rivers Career Center, Washington, $400,000.00

Franklin Technology Center, Joplin, $400,000.00

Gibson Technical Center, Reeds Spring, $400,000.00

Grand River Technical School, Chillicothe, $400,000.00

Herndon Career Center, Raytown, $400,000.00

Hillyard Technical Center, St. Joseph, $400,000.00

Jefferson College - Area Technical School, Hillsboro, $400,000.00

Kennett Career and Technology Center, Kennett, $400,000.00

Kirksville Area Technical Center, Kirksville, $400,000.00

Lake Career and Technical Center, Camdenton, $400,000.00

Lamar Career & Technical Center, Lamar, $323,500.00

Lebanon Technology and Career Center, Lebanon, $400,000.00

Lewis & Clark Career Center, St. Charles, $400,000.00

Lex La-Ray Technical Center, Lexington, $400,000.00

Linn County Area Career and Technical Center, Brookfield, $400,000.00

Manual Career and Technical Center, Kansas City, $400,000.00

Miller Career Academy, St. Louis, $400,000.00

Nevada Regional Technical Center, Nevada, $400,000.00

New Madrid County R-I Technical Skills Center, New Madrid, $400,000.00

Nichols Career Center, Jefferson City, $400,000.00

Northwest Technical School, Maryville, $400,000.00

OTC Career Center, Springfield, $400,000.00

Ozark Mountain Technical Center, Mountain Grove, $400,000.00

Pemiscot County Career and Technology Center, Hayti, $400,000.00

Perryville Area Career and Technology Center, Perryville, $400,000.00

Pike-Lincoln Technical Center, Eolia, $400,000.00

Poplar Bluff Technical Career Center, Poplar Bluff, $400,000.00

Rolla Technical Center/Rolla Technical Institute, Rolla, $400,000.00

Scott Regional Technology Center, Monett, $400,000.00

Sikeston Career & Technology Center, Sikeston, $400,000.00

South Central Career Center, West Plains, $150,000.00

Special School District St. Louis County, Town & Country, $400,000.00

State Fair Career & Technology Center, Sedalia, $400,000.00

UniTec Career Center, Bonne Terre, $400,000.00

Warrensburg Area Career Center, Warrensburg, $400,000.00

Waynesville Career Center, Waynesville, $400,000.00

Nearly $3 Million in Grants Approved for Eleven Missouri Colleges and Universities to Help Enhance Nursing Programs Across Missouri

SEPTEMBER 21, 2022

 — Governor Mike Parson today announced nearly $3 million in grant funding has been approved for 11 Missouri colleges and universities to help enhance nursing education programs and develop solutions to help alleviate staffing shortages felt nationwide.

“My administration has prioritized workforce development, especially for our high demand fields such as nursing,” Governor Parson said. “It is vitally important that we continue to invest in Missouri’s health care workforce. These grant funds will assist with expanding clinical partnerships and nursing resources to better provide students with a valuable education as well as increase enrollment capacity in the future.”

These 11 competitive grants, totaling $2,997,690, were part of a special appropriation to the Missouri State Board of Nursing that was recommended and approved by Governor Parson. The approved grants include:

  • $298,016 to Avila University in Kansas City
  • $296,000 to Bolivar Technical College
  • $269,793 to Cox College in Springfield
  • $300,000 to Goldfarb School of Nursing in St. Louis
  • $275,900 to Jefferson College in Hillsboro
  • $230,044 to Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph
  • $300,000 to South Central Career Center in West Plains
  • $298,137 to St. Louis University
  • $300,000 to University of Missouri – Kansas City
  • $300,000 to University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg
  • $129,800 to William Jewell College in Liberty

The nursing programs that were awarded funds have proposed innovative solutions to assist in alleviating the nursing shortage by increasing nursing faculty, developing career ladder programs that start in high school, leveraging virtual simulation and distance learning, and expanding earn while you learn models where students earn a wage while obtaining clinical education.

“We are proud of our Missouri nursing programs that proposed solutions which showcase their ability to lead in change and transform nursing education,” said Lori Scheidt, Executive Director of the Missouri State Board of Nursing. “I look forward to seeing these grant funds put into action to strengthen Missouri’s nursing pipeline.”

In addition to these funds, the Missouri State Board of Nursing has awarded more than $8 million through the Nursing Education Incentive Program(NEIP). That is an investment of more than $11 million to improve infrastructure for Missouri nursing programs and promote innovation in nursing education. NEIP is an annual grant program designed to increase the physical and educational capacity of professional nursing programs throughout the state.

The Missouri State Board of Nursing’s most recent workforce analysis report in 2021 indicated nursing shortages in certain geographic areas of the state. This report is conducted annually and provides valuable information on how to target solutions driven by data.

The Missouri State Board of Nursing is a division of the Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance and worked in coordination with the Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development to select these grant recipients. More information on NEIP grants may be obtained from the Missouri State Board of Nursing’s website.

Governor Parson Signs Eight Bills Into Law

JULY 1, 2022

 — Governor Mike Parson has signed eight pieces of legislation into law, including SB 672 that extends the sunset on the Fast Track workforce incentive program. 

"We are proud that our Fast Track program has been extended to continue providing adults with opportunities to learn new skills and develop their career potential," Governor Parson said. "This program is heavily used by women, first-generation college students, and individuals seeking health care related careers, and we are grateful to the General Assembly for recognizing the importance of maintaining this program." 

SB 672 – Modifies provisions related to workforce development: 

  • Extends the sunset on the Fast Track program; 
  • Creates the Joint Committee on Rural Economic Development; and 
  • Creates Targeted Industrial Manufacturing Enhancement Zones to help incentivize economic development in landlocked communities.

HB 2400 – Modifies provisions related to business entities:

  • Allows taxpayers to remove state and local taxes they have paid from the calculation of their federal tax liability, aligning Missouri tax law with the changes that were made in the federal Tax Cuts and Jobs Act;
  • Makes changes to the Missouri One Start Program to help further attract and retain businesses in Missouri;
  • Expands opportunities for retirement and benefit plan options through registered professional employer organizations; and
  • Reauthorizes and revises a tax credit program to incentivize research and development by Missouri businesses.

SB 775 – Makes changes to judicial proceedings:

  • Protects the identity of victims of sexual assault and domestic violence in court proceedings and records;
  • Modifies the Sexual Assault Survivor's Bill of Rights; and
  • Strengthens protections against sexual exploitation of minors.

SB 683 – Modifies provisions relating to child care:

  • Exempts certain day camps and summer camps for school age children from child care licensing requirements;
  • Expands child care licensing capacity for licensed family child care homes; and
  • Creates a new prison nursery program that will allow eligible pregnant offenders to keep their baby with them for up to 18 months while in custody.

SB 681 – Modifies provisions relating to education:

  • Allows schools to apply a waiver of certain statutory requirements for the purpose of improving student post-secondary readiness, increasing teacher pay, or improving teacher recruitment and professional development;
  • Modifies the Career Ladder program by increasing state funding and enabling newer teachers to qualify in an effort to help with teacher retention efforts;
  • Expands opportunities for substitute teacher certification;
  • Creates a reading intervention program to ensure students do not fall behind on reading skills in elementary school;
  • Requires schools to post suicide lifeline information on student ID cards for students in grades seven through twelve; and
  • Creates the Imaginary Library Program, which provides families with books to children up to age five.

During signing ceremonies at the State Capitol, Governor Parson also signed HB 2485, HB 1738, and HB 2627. 

For more information on the specifics of each bill signed, visit House.mo.gov, Senate.mo.gov, or click here.

Photos from today's bill signings will be available on Governor Parson's Flickr page.

Governor Parson Takes Action on FY23 State Operating Budget Bills

JUNE 30, 2022

 — Today, Governor Mike Parson signed Fiscal Year 2023 (FY23) state operating budget bills, approving historic investments in Missouri's infrastructure, communities, workforce, education systems, public safety resources, and public services. 

"We want to thank all of the legislators who helped pass this historic budget that cements our state's strong financial position and provides tremendous opportunities for Missourians, both today and tomorrow," Governor Parson said. "Informed by the needs of Missourians all across the state, we have once again passed a balanced and conservative budget that benefits every Missourian."

"With record revenues, strong economic performance, and significant sums of Missourians' federal tax dollars returning to our state, this session we met the moment and approved strategic investments that will serve generations of Missourians," Governor Parson continued. 

The Missouri FY23 state operating budget is approximately $47.5 billion, including $12.5 billion in general revenue. Additionally, Governor Parson issued 32 line-item vetoes, totaling nearly $644 million. To view the complete list of budget vetoes, click here

During his 2022 State of the State Address, Governor Parson asked the General Assembly to invest in infrastructure projects all across the state, from the hardest routes to fund in rural areas to underserved communities in urban areas. The FY23 budget bills include hundreds of millions of dollars for critical infrastructure projects:

  • $608 million for investments in drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure;
  • $356.5 million for broadband expansion projects;
  • $160 million for efficient and innovative transportation projects across the state;
  • $100 million for rural route repair projects;
  • $75 million for the Transportation Cost-Share program;
  • $8.5 million for rural health telehealth access; and
  • $12.9 million for public transit.

For future Missourians to have the best possible outcomes, Governor Parson understands that the state must take action today. To accomplish this, he knows that workforce development and education initiatives must work together. The FY23 budget prioritizes investments in both education and workforce development systems to skill up Missourians: 

  • $3.6 billion to again fully fund the K-12 Foundation Formula;
  • $460.1 million for capital improvement projects at public higher education institutions;
  • $429.5 million to strengthen the state's child care and early childhood education network;
  • $328.4 million to fully fund school transportation needs;
  • $75 million to develop new shovel-ready industrial sites; 
  • $51.6 million core funding increase for state four-year higher education institutions;
  • $31.5 million for the third year of MoExcels projects and employer-driven workforce training investments; 
  • $30 million for Missouri One Start to assist employers, train and upskill workers, and upgrade training infrastructure; 
  • $21.8 million to partner with schools districts to increase baseline K-12 educator pay to $38,000 per year; 
  • $20 million to upgrade and improve Missouri's 57 area career centers;
  • $16 million for the Missouri Technology Corporation to promote entrepreneurship and innovation; 
  • $10 million for higher education agricultural innovation in education workforce programs; 
  • $10 million for MoExcels program projects at private non-profit institutions;
  • $9.1 million for Missouri One Start; 
  • $7 million for dual credit and enrollment scholarships;
  • $6 million for A+ schools program; and
  • $500,000 for Jobs for America's Graduates.

While the past few years have been hard on Missouri communities, there are now opportunities for once in a lifetime investments that strengthen the future success of every community: rural, urban, and suburban. Governor Parson called on lawmakers to fund projects that improve the health, safety, and economic well-being of communities across the state, and the FY23 budget answers that call:

  • $955 million for provider rate standardization and to improve MO HealthNet program integrity and access to care for vulnerable Missourians; 
  • $148.7 million for community provider capital improvements and to expand services to underserved populations; 
  • $104.7 million for a new public safety crime lab that will assist local law enforcement agencies; 
  • $100 million for Community Development and Revitalization grants;
  • $94.9 million to invest in new small businesses;
  • $78.6 million for the construction of a new multidisciplinary state health lab;
  • $50 million for developmental disability and behavioral health services; 
  • $30 million for local tourism asset development; 
  • $30 million for a first responders grant program;
  • $30.5 million to implement the 988 Crisis Hotline;
  • $29.2 million for Area Agencies on Aging; 
  • $24 million for services for victims of crime; 
  • $12.8 million for substance use response grants for local governments;
  • $5.8 million for Missouri Autism Centers; 
  • $4.4 million for 911 dispatch centers; 
  • $2.5 million for the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program to help combat the opioid crisis;
  • $1 million for law enforcement academy scholarships;
  • $550,000 for crisis counseling services for law enforcement officers; and
  • $420,000 for Youth Behavioral Health Liaisons.

In order to increase opportunities for Missourians' success, state government must also look to continually improve the services it provides to citizens. This year, Governor Parson is approving needed upgrades and investments in state government: 

  • $500 million extraordinary payment to the Missouri State Employee Retirement System; 
  • $228 million to continue state employee pay raises provided in the 2022 Supplemental Budget Bill;
  • $126.1 million to develop and modernize online government services;
  • $100 million to accelerate the repayment of outstanding bond debt, a $148 million saving to taxpayers;
  • $34.8 million for a state employee retirement savings incentive, up to a $75 match per month;
  • $27.3 million to modernize the child support system; 
  • $16.8 million for MO HealthNet eligibility redeterminations; and
  • $7 million to update the Division of Youth Services Case Management system.

"This past session was often obstructed by petty infighting and personal political interests, but common sense prevailed," Governor Parson said. "We applaud members of the General Assembly for capitalizing on this opportunity and prioritizing the continued success of our state."

To view the FY23 state operating budget bills, click here

Governor Parson Signs HB 1878, Four Other Bills Into Law

JUNE 29, 2022

 — Today, during a signing ceremony at the State Capitol, Governor Mike Parson signed five pieces of legislation into law, including House Bill (HB) 1878, which modifies Missouri's election laws to strengthen election processes and voter confidence. 

"We are happy to be joined by Representative John Simmons and Senator Sandy Crawford to sign HB 1878 into law," Governor Parson said. "In 2020 and years prior, Missouri has conducted free, fair, and secure elections, but with changing technologies and new emerging threats, we want to ensure they remain that way. HB 1878 strengthens our election processes and gives Missourians confidence that their voices are being accurately and securely recorded at the ballot box."

HB 1878 - Modifies provisions regarding election law:

Requires all registered voters in Missouri to provide a photo ID to vote and repeals the use of mail-in ballots while allowing certain absentee ballots, strengthening the integrity of each citizen's vote. 

Additionally, HB 1878 makes several other modifications to state statute:

  • Clarifies when voter rolls can be audited by the Secretary of State;
  • Allows no excuse absentee voting in person at the local election authority starting two weeks prior to the election;
  • Prohibits the use of ballot drop boxes for absentee ballots;
  • Makes the paper ballot the official ballot and prohibits the use of electronic vote counting machines after January 1, 2024;
  • Prevents local election authorities from accepting private donations, with limited exceptions;
  • Requires all electronic voting machines to be "air gapped" or not directly connected to the internet; and 
  • Adds several other provisions related to elections. 

"Our election system is a cornerstone of our Republic," State Representative John Simmons said. "Faith and confidence in the process is a solemn responsibility by voters themselves and those conducting elections.  A photo ID  requirement is but one common sense measure the vast majority of Missourians support."  

“I believe when HB 1878 becomes law Missourians can be assured that their votes will be counted correctly and there will be many safeguards in place to prevent voter fraud,” State Senator Sandy Crawford said. 

Additionally, Governor Parson signed SB 745, SB 820, HB 1606, and HB 1552. 

SB 745 -  Modifies provisions relating to public utilities

  • Protects the personal information of municipal utility customers from disclosure under the Sunshine Law;
  • Expands certain utilities’ ability to apply to the Public Service Commissions for a one-time rate adjustment for rate variations caused by weather, conservation, or both outside of a general rate proceeding;
  • Creates a legislative task force to review proper taxation on solar energy systems; and
  • Establishes two discount rate options for new, large electric customers that project certain electric loads over 5 and 10 year periods. 

SB 820 - Modifies provisions relating to utilities:

  • Exempts solar energy systems that are purchased and installed by a solar energy company from sales tax;
  • Establishes the Office of Broadband Development in state law, including criteria and deliverables for the broadband grant program; and
  • Prohibits deeds, covenants, or other binding agreements that limit or prohibit property owners from installing solar panels on their rooftops. 

HB 1606 - Changes the law regarding political subdivisions:

  • Increases transparency and reduces administrative burdens on various taxing districts;
  • Requires deeds to include the marital status of all grantors to prevent titling discrepancies and land title defects; and
  • Conveys several state properties.

HB 1552 - Modifies provisions relating to funding for charter schools and requirements for virtual education:

  • Makes changes to charter school funding;
  • Modifies requirements on charter school board member qualifications, annual performance report publications, and lactation accommodations; and
  • Amends the state’s Virtual School Program.

For more information on the specifics of each bill signed, visit House.mo.gov, Senate.mo.gov, or click here.

Photos from today's bill signing will be available on Governor Parson's Flickr page.

Governor Parson Signs SB 718, Five Other Bills Into Law

JUNE 16, 2022

 — Today, during a signing ceremony at the State Capitol, Governor Mike Parson signed six pieces of legislation into law, including Senate Bill (SB) 718, which establishes Historically Black College and University (HBCU) Week and promotes career and technical education, among other provisions.

"We are happy to be joined by Senator Washington and Representative Shields to sign SB 718 into law," Governor Parson said. "Missourians are proud that our state is home to two Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and this legislation will help bring awareness and deserving recognition to these institutions. Additionally, this bill helps us move forward with our workforce development goals to ensure Missouri has a skilled and capable labor force."

SB 718 - Designates HBCU Week and modifies provision regarding higher education:

Designates the third week of September as HBCU week to raise awareness of HBCUs in Missouri. This legislation also allows the Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development to assist students with the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act application process, promoting career and technical education in Missouri. 

Additionally, SB 718 makes several other modifications to state statute:

  • Creates a $3,000 maximum tax credit for physicians who provide preceptorship training to medical students;
  • Establishes the "Dual Credit and Dual Enrollment Scholarship Act" and provides qualifying students a scholarship equal to the tuition and fees paid for dual enrollment courses;
  • Requires Missouri high schools to offer a minimum of one computer science course to students;
  • Allows postsecondary institutions and associated employees to assist with opportunities for student-athletes to earn compensation for their name, image, and likeness; 
  • Creates the Workforce Diploma Program to help adults obtain a high school diploma;
  • Requires public higher education institutions to post the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline number on student ID cards;
  • Requires Missouri public higher education institutions to grant course credit to any student who scores a three or higher on an advanced placement examination; and
  • Provides bankruptcy protections for Missouri 529 college savings plans.

"What began as a bill to bring more awareness and attention to our two HBCUs has grown into a more impactful piece of legislation that will improve all of higher education," State Senator Barbara Washington said. "I'm proud to carry legislation that will make NILs easier for our athletes; that will provide more dual credit opportunities; and create the workforce diploma program for our high school graduates. I want to thank the Governor, Rep. Brenda Shields, and Rep. Kurtis Gregory for pulling this bill through."

“Provisions in this bill show the ongoing commitment of our medical professionals to ensure a healthy future for all Missourians," State Representative Brenda Shields said. "The preceptor tax credit is funded by physicians to help train tomorrow’s physicians."

SB 799 -  Modifies the offense of escaping from custody:

Adds to the offense of escaping from custody individuals who are held for parole or probation violations. 

HB 2162 - Opioid addiction treatment:

  • Allows the Department of Health and Senior Services Director to issue a standing order for Naltrexone; and
  • Allows the Department of Corrections and Judiciary to use the Opioid Addiction Fund if appropriated by the General Assembly. 

SB 725 - Modifies provision relating to ground ambulance services:

  • Prohibits a newly elected ambulance board member from running for reelection if they do not attend ambulance board member training; and
  • Modifies the Ground Ambulance Reimbursement Allowance to allow ambulance districts to maintain up to $10 million in provider tax funding coming into the state.

HB 1472 - Modifies provisions relating to the offense of money laundering:

Changes state money laundering statute to account for new technologies, including cryptocurrencies. This will also give prosecutors more tools to combat human trafficking in the state. 

SB 655 - Modifies provisions relating to Missouri Local Government Employees' Retirement System:

Allows political subdivisions to elect to cover emergency telecommunications, jailors, and Emergency Management Services employees under the LAGERS retirement system. 

Photos from today's bill signing will be available on Governor Parson's Flickr page.

Governor Parson Signs Second FY 2022 Supplemental Budget Bill

MAY 13, 2022

 — Today, Governor Mike Parson signed a second supplemental budget bill for Fiscal Year (FY) 2022, HB 3015, that was passed by the General Assembly last week. The bill allocates supplemental funding for grant programs and operations across state government, including K-12 school programs, domestic and sexual violence victim services, water and wastewater services, child abuse prevention programs, and health care projects, among others.

"This budget bill allows state government to continue supporting Missourians and creating opportunity in our state," Governor Parson said. "These funds are critical for victims of domestic and sexual violence and our K-12 schools. We thank the General Assembly for getting this legislation to my desk."

HB 3015 totals over $851 million, including over $110 million in general revenue, nearly $383 million in federal funds, and more than $357 million in other funds. 

For more information on HB 3015, click here

Governor Parson Announces New Project Eagle Apprenticeship Program

FEBRUARY 23, 2022

 — Today, in coordination with the Missouri National Guard (MONG) and the Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development (DHEWD), Governor Mike Parson announced the establishment of the Project Eagle Apprenticeship Program, to qualify military training and experience towards a federally-recognized apprenticeship certification.

“We are so proud of our military men and women here in Missouri. This program, which takes military training and turns it into a nationally recognized credential, is just one more way we can show our support for the folks who serve and support us,” Governor Parson said. “The Project Eagle Apprenticeship Program allows service members to earn a credential that can translate into career advancements, helping bridge the gap between military and civilian life.”

With this new partnership, the Missouri National Guard has been able to register as an apprenticeship sponsor as a result of collaboration between the Office of Apprenticeship & Work-based Learning, the U.S. Department of Labor, and military partners. This certification will be a no-cost benefit to service members, who will receive an apprenticeship credential upon completion of their on-the-job learning hours. Learning occurs during duty hours under the direction of the service members’ supervisors. The programs are tailored to fit any enlisted Military Occupational Specialty or Air Force Specialty Code (MOS/AFSC) in the Missouri National Guard.

A kickoff celebration of the Project Eagle Apprenticeship Program was held today at the Ike Skelton Training Site, Missouri National Guard Headquarters in Jefferson City. Governor Parson, Major General Levon Cumpton, and Director of Workforce Development Dr. Mardy Leathers all shared their support for the new program during today’s celebration. Specialist Kirkland Maneth and Master Sgt. Chase Jenkins are the first two Guardsmen to enroll and participate in the Registered Apprenticeship Program.

The new apprenticeship program, through MONG, is the largest and most comprehensive program of its kind in the nation. It includes 170 occupations with every unit within MONG Air and Army participating in the program – which is the only of its kind.

“The Apprenticeship Program aligns with our culture of taking care of each other,” said Maj. Gen. Levon Cumpton. “It does so by providing national certification, which demonstrates the compatibility between military training and required skills for civilian employment. I am exceptionally proud of our partnership with DHEWD and the hard work of the team who made this opportunity possible."

Registered Apprenticeships are an industry-driven, high-quality career pathway where workers gain experience, classroom instruction, and a transferable credential. Apprenticeships are a flexible training model and a viable tool for the state to use to give Missourians the tools and credentials to advance in their careers.

The successful work of matching over 170 Missouri National Guard occupations to approved apprenticeship occupations is due to the experience, and dedication of our Missouri Office of Apprenticeships’ Apprenticeship and Training Representatives, who are all retired guardsmen,” said Dr. Mardy Leathers. “They all have a passion to assist those who serve, and I believe this new program will be a lasting legacy to future service members.”

Missouri currently ranks third in the nation for completed apprenticeships, fourth in the nation for new apprentices, and sixth for active apprentices.

 

In FY 2021, Missouri had 14,520 active apprentices across 460 registered programs. Missouri ranks in the top 10 in the nation across four out of five categories for Registered Apprenticeships.

Service members can learn more about this apprenticeship opportunity on the MONG website:  https://www.moguard.ngb.mil/Programs/MONG-Apprenticeship-Program/