The bill proposes the repeal of sections 162.961 and 167.027 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri and enacts three new sections, including section 162.106, which outlines the responsibilities of school board members regarding conflicts of interest. It mandates that school board members must avoid any appearance of conflict and publicly disclose potential conflicts, including financial transactions exceeding $500 with the school district. Additionally, the bill requires school superintendents and certain administrative staff to disclose their financial interests and prohibits school districts from hiring attorneys who have conflicts of interest related to the district's members or employees. Furthermore, the bill modifies the due process hearing procedures for students with disabilities under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). It establishes that the burden of proof in such hearings lies with the school district and introduces new definitions and requirements for maintaining student special education records, which are to be considered permanent and cannot be destroyed. The bill also emphasizes the importance of timely procedures and the rights of parents and students during the due process hearings, ensuring that students remain in their current educational placements during disputes unless otherwise agreed upon.

Statutes affected:
Introduced (6252H.02): 162.106, 162.961, 167.027