Changes the definition of "qualified student" for the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Program

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mark Matthiesen

HB 1801 would redefine who qualifies for Missouri’s Empowerment Scholarship Accounts, changing eligibility criteria for ESA participation.

Referred: Emerging Issues(H)

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Overview

HB 1801 (Missouri, 2026) proposes changes to the definition of “qualified student” for the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Accounts (ESA) Program. The bill, filed and referred through the 2026 legislative process, seeks to alter eligibility criteria for students to participate in the ESA program that provides state-funded scholarships to families for approved educational services and options.

Purpose and intent

To modify the criteria that determine which students qualify for participation in the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Program.

The aim is to expand, restrict, or otherwise adjust the pool of students eligible to receive ESA funds by changing the definition of “qualified student.”

The exact intent (expansion vs. narrowing) is not specified in the summary provided; the bill’s language would specify whether the change broadens access to more students or tightens eligibility requirements.

Key provisions (as implied by the title)

Redefinition of “qualified student” within the statute governing the Missouri ESA program.

The redefinition would be incorporated into the program’s eligibility framework, potentially affecting annual enrollment, renewal, and participation terms.

Possible alignment or recalibration with related program requirements (e.g., household income thresholds, residence, previous schooling status, disability status, or other triggers used to determine eligibility).

Any consequential rules for students already participating (e.g., continued eligibility or transition provisions) would be addressed in the bill’s text.

Affected parties and entities

Students currently or seeking enrollment in the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Program.

Families of students who would qualify under the new definition.

School districts, public or private schools, and service providers who administer or coordinate ESA-funded services.

State agencies responsible for administering the ESA program, including budget and compliance offices.

Potential impacts to expect

Eligibility: Depending on the redefinition, the pool of eligible students could increase or decrease, influencing program participation and state expenditures.

Funding and compliance: Changes to eligibility may affect ESA funding allocations, reporting requirements, and oversight to ensure students meet the new criteria.

Educational options: Families may gain or lose access to funded services such as tutoring, private school tuition, or other approved educational interventions supported by an ESA.

Local districts and providers: Adjustments in enrollment and service demand may require administrative updates and coordination with participating educators and institutions.

Notes

The exact statutory language is required to determine whether the change is expansive or restrictive, and to understand any transitional provisions for current ESA participants.

As the bill progresses, stakeholders should review committee amendments and fiscal notes for detailed financial implications and implementation timelines.

Bill