Bill > HB3102

This bill modifies provisions related to programs offered by public institutions of higher education in Missouri, primarily by updating the A+ Schools Program and adjusting degree-granting authorities for certain institutions. The A+ Schools Program, administered by the commissioner of education within the department of elementary and secondary education, aims to ensure high school students graduate, complete challenging coursework, and either earn college credits, proceed to postsecondary education or a high-wage job with skill development opportunities, or earn a college degree. The bill expands eligibility for tuition, book, and fee reimbursement under this program to include students attending public universities, provided they meet specific criteria such as graduating from an approved high school, making good faith efforts to secure federal funding, maintaining a minimum grade average, and being a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. For public universities to receive reimbursement, they must be accredited, not charge tuition exceeding that of a public community college for similar coursework, and the student must be enrolled in a degree program related to a designated workforce shortage area. Additionally, the bill allows state colleges and teachers colleges to confer associate degrees and modifies the degree-granting authority for Missouri Southern State University and Missouri Western State University, removing previous restrictions on their associate degree programs and clarifying their statewide missions. Finally, the State Technical College of Missouri is authorized to offer applied science associate degrees and baccalaureate degrees under specific conditions, ensuring they do not unnecessarily duplicate existing programs and meet high-quality standards.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB3102&year=2026&code=R