Bill > SB20

This bill modifies Missouri state law to establish a framework for counties to levy a sales tax specifically for funding early childhood education services. The bill allows counties to impose a sales tax (ranging from 1/8 to 1/2 of one percent) that must be approved by voter referendum, with revenues to be deposited into a dedicated "Early Childhood Education Fund". The fund would be managed by a board of directors who would have sole administrative control over the funds, with the primary goal of improving the quality, affordability, and access to early childhood development programs for children five years old and younger. The board can use these funds to support various types of early education and care providers, including preschools, childcare centers, head start programs, and family child care homes, with a priority on serving children in financial need. The legislation includes provisions to prevent conflicts of interest, allows the board to accept grants and gifts, and establishes strict guidelines for how the funds can be used and managed, ensuring transparency and focused support for early childhood education initiatives.

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https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=518