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Bill

Bill

HB 3037

Modifies provisions of the "Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Program" tax credit

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bill Allen and 1 co-sponsor

HB 3037 modifies Missouri's ESA tax credit program to adjust how educational scholarship accounts are funded and administered through private donations.

Reported Do Pass (H) - AYES: 8 NOES: 4 PRESENT: 0
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Bill Summary · HB 3037

Legislative bill overview

HB 3037 modifies Missouri's Empowerment Scholarship Accounts (ESA) Program, which provides tax credits to donors who fund educational accounts for students. The bill adjusts existing provisions of this scholarship tax credit mechanism, though the specific modifications are not detailed in the legislative record provided.

Why is this important

ESA programs affect school funding dynamics and educational access by redirecting state resources through private tax credits rather than direct public school appropriations. Changes to these programs impact both the total funding available to public schools and the educational options available to families, making this relevant to education policy and state budgets.

Potential points of contention

  • Public vs. private education funding: Critics argue ESA expansions reduce public school funding; supporters view them as expanding educational choice and parental control
  • Fiscal impact and accountability: Questions about tax revenue lost through credits, whether scholarship amounts adequately serve students, and transparency in how funds are used
  • Equity concerns: Whether tax credit-based programs effectively serve low-income families or primarily benefit higher-income households better positioned to utilize such mechanisms

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

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