Bill > HB2209

This bill modifies Missouri's laws regarding civics instruction in schools by expanding and clarifying requirements for civics education. It mandates that all public and private schools (except proprietary schools) provide regular courses on the U.S. and Missouri Constitutions, American history, and government institutions, starting no later than seventh grade and continuing through high school. The bill increases the civics course requirement from one semester to four semesters (or an equivalent length), and requires students to pass a comprehensive civics examination similar to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) citizenship test as a condition of high school graduation. The bill also requires American history courses to include specific details about the racial equality movement in their proper historical context. School districts can waive these requirements for transfer students who have already completed equivalent civics instruction, and districts must provide accommodations for students with disabilities through their Individualized Education Program (IEP). Additionally, the bill maintains a provision allowing school districts to annually nominate students who demonstrate exceptional knowledge of government and citizenship for state recognition.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB2209&year=2026&code=R