Bill > HB2722

This bill establishes a "Liaison for Postsecondary Education for Homeless Pupils" within the department of higher education and workforce development to support individuals who meet the federal definitions of "homeless children and youths" or "unaccompanied youth." This liaison, appointed by the governor for a four-year term, will be knowledgeable about issues affecting homeless students, particularly concerning the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, and will have no conflicts of interest with organizations serving this population. The bill also creates a dedicated fund, the "Liaison for Postsecondary Education for Homeless Pupils Fund," to support the liaison's work, with any remaining funds not reverting to general revenue at the end of a biennium. The liaison's responsibilities, subject to available funding, include conducting annual needs assessments, developing tracking databases for graduation and retention rates, creating college and career readiness models, collaborating with high schools and higher education institutions to identify and refer students to support services, establishing connections with financial aid and housing offices, identifying and coordinating with food and clothing banks, developing housing plans for homeless students, applying for grants, and publishing a directory of college liaisons for homeless and foster students. The liaison also has the authority to hire staff, purchase equipment, and secure office space.

Education

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB2722&year=2026&code=R