SB 998: Creates, repeals, and modifies provisions relating to the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Program

Official summary

Abstract published by the legislature (via Open States). Text as published by the legislature; reproduced verbatim.

SCS/SB 998 - This act creates, repeals, and modifies provisions of the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Program. The act changes the definition of "illegal alien" to "legal resident" as set forth under federal law. The act modifies the definition of "qualified student" by removing the requirement for a qualified student to have attended a public school during the previous 12 months, as well as removing requirements relating to students' kindergarten eligibility and siblings who participate in the program. Such definition is further modified by adding dyslexia and disability diagnoses to requirements concerning individualized education plans. This provision is similar to a provision in SS/HCS/HBs 2097 & 1905 (2026). (Section 166.700) The act provides that an organization representing a group of parents of qualified students may intervene on behalf of such parents as a defendant in any action in which any provision of state law, the Missouri Constitution, or a state regulation involving the program is at issue. An organization that intervenes as provided in the act shall have the right to file such pleading necessary on behalf of such parents. (Section 166.719) Finally, except as specifically provided in state law, the act prohibits the creation or enforcement of any rule, regulation, or other requirement that conditions a qualified school's participation in the program on accreditation or compliance with any other requirement. Any rule, regulation, or other requirement that violates this provision is void and shall have no force or effect. (Section 166.720) OLIVIA SHANNON

Sponsors

Sponsors by party (alphabetical): Republican 1

“Support” is shown only as formal sponsorship recorded by the legislature. Roll-call votes are available on the official bill page.

Recent official actions

1. May 15, 2026Informal Calendar S Bills for Perfection
2. February 23, 2026Bill Placed on Informal Calendar
3. February 12, 2026Reported from S Education Committee w/SCS
4. January 29, 2026SCS Voted Do Pass S Education Committee (4362S.03C)
5. January 13, 2026Hearing Conducted S Education Committee
6. January 8, 2026Second Read and Referred S Education Committee
7. January 7, 2026S First Read
8. December 1, 2025Prefiled