via STOM Legislative Liaison, Brian Crouse

The 101st Missouri Legislative Session began on January 5, 2022. Bills filed to this point in time mainly focus on Critical Race Theory, Mask Mandates, Workforce Development and other non-Science related themes. At this point in time, a reintroduced House and Senate bill expanding previous legislation on computer science in the state of Missouri has been introduced in both Chambers. As the session builds momentum, look to more bills that will be introduced in both the House and the Senate that may be of interest to members of STOM. Please find below details and links to the Computer Science Legislation.

HB 2202 Computer Science Courses – Rep. Travis Fitzwater - Companion Bill in Senate – SB 659 by Sen. Cierpiot. This bill modifies existing computer science education statue, by requiring a stand-alone computer science course to be taught at any level, but allows for embedding computer science content within another subject area at the elementary and middle grade levels. Additionally, the bill allows for the successful completion of a High School computer science course to be counted toward state graduation requirements as the equivalent of either one science credit or one practical arts credit; which will satisfy any admissions requirements to any public institution of higher education in Missouri.

The bill also establishes a Computer Science Supervisor at the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to oversee the implementation of computer science coursework in the state. The bill has been referred to the House Committee on Workforce Development.

via STOM Legislative Liaison, Brian Crouse

The 2021 Missouri Legislative Session proved challenging due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The following summary recaps the legislation put forth this session that either crossed the finish line as signed into law, or, that did not make it through session, but may have been of interest to members of STOM.

HB 297 – Institutions of Higher Education or Student Right to Know Act – Rep. Wallingford –Signed into Law by Governor  

Requires the Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development (DHEWD) to annually collect and compile specified information to help high school students make more informed decisions about their futures and ensure they are adequately aware of the costs of four-year colleges and alternative career paths.   Documentation must be distributed to public school guidance counselors by October 15^th of each year.

Changes the name of the “Missouri Education Savings Program” to the “Missouri Education Program” and allows for funds saved under a state 529 program to be allocated for use in vocational education and apprenticeship programs.  Modifies Missouri state 529 provisions to match the federal changes for state 529 plans.

The state board of education shall develop a statewide plan for career and technical education (CTE) that ensures sustainability, viability, and relevance by matching workforce needs with appropriate educational resources.  The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education shall convene workgroups to develop written model curriculum frameworks relating to CTE program areas that may be used by school districts. (Initially proposed in HB-896 by Rep. Black)

Designates Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO) as an institution with a statewide mission in visual and performing arts, computer science, and cybersecurity.

Harris-Stowe State University can successfully discharge a statewide mission in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) for underrepresented and under resourced students.

HB 349 – Establishes the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Program – Rep. Christofanelli –Signed into Law by Governor  

Specifies that any taxpayer may claim a tax credit, not to exceed 50% of the taxpayer's state tax liability, for any qualifying contribution to an educational assistance organization. The cumulative amount of tax credits issued in any one calendar year begins at $50 million and may be adjusted by the state treasurer annually based upon inflation with a maximum cap of $75 million.

Two other bills that were of interest to members of STOM that did not pass, but could be reintroduced in the next legislative session in 2022.

HB 320 - Expands Provisions of Computer Science Courses – Rep. Fitzwater –- Did Not Pass