The bill proposes the repeal of section 163.191 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri and enacts a new section that outlines the framework for community college degree programs. It defines a "community college" as an institution providing postsecondary education primarily for individuals above the twelfth-grade age level, offering courses in liberal arts, vocational-technical fields, and various educational community services. The new section allows community colleges to grant baccalaureate degrees under specific circumstances, such as when there is a persistent workforce shortage in occupations requiring such degrees or when the level of education required for employment increases to that level. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of quality in baccalaureate programs, which will be evaluated based on upper-level coursework and compliance with accreditation standards. The bill also addresses funding for community colleges, stating that they may receive up to fifty percent of their planned operating costs from state funds, contingent on availability and appropriation. It establishes a resource allocation model for distributing appropriated funds to community college districts and mandates the department of higher education and workforce development to evaluate this model's effectiveness. Furthermore, it allows for state aid to new community college districts during their initial years of operation and provides guidelines for maintenance and repair funding for facilities. The bill aims to enhance educational opportunities for Missouri residents, including those outside existing community college districts, by permitting community colleges to offer courses and programs with prior approval from the coordinating board for higher education.

Statutes affected:
Introduced (5900H.01): 163.191