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MD

Bill

HB 3373

Establishes a liaison for postsecondary education for homeless pupils within the department of higher education and workforce development

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Melissa Douglas and 1 co-sponsor

HB 3373 creates a homeless student liaison position in Missouri's higher education department to support postsecondary enrollment and completion for unhoused pupils.

Referred: Emerging Issues(H)
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Bill Summary · HB 3373

Legislative bill overview

HB 3373 creates a dedicated liaison position within Missouri's Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development specifically tasked with supporting homeless students pursuing postsecondary education. The liaison would serve as a point of contact and advocate for homeless pupils navigating college and workforce training programs.

Why is this important

Homeless students face significant barriers to educational access and completion, including unstable housing, food insecurity, and lack of awareness about available support services. Establishing a formal liaison position could improve graduation rates, program retention, and employment outcomes for this vulnerable population while reducing systemic coordination gaps between homeless services and educational institutions.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding source: The bill does not specify budget allocation or whether this represents new spending or reallocation of existing department resources
  • Scope of authority and effectiveness: Unclear whether a liaison role has sufficient authority and resources to address root causes of homelessness or if it's primarily an information-sharing position with limited intervention capability
  • Collaboration mechanisms: No explicit requirement for coordination with homeless services agencies, housing authorities, or other state departments, potentially limiting the liaison's practical impact

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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