The bill proposes to repeal the existing section 168.071 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri and replace it with a new section that outlines the conditions under which the state board of education may refuse to issue or renew a teaching certificate or discipline a certificate holder. The new language specifies that a certificate may be denied or revoked for reasons including felony convictions, fraud in obtaining certification, evidence of incompetence or immorality, and disciplinary actions from other jurisdictions. Notably, the bill removes previous language regarding annulment of contracts as a basis for filing charges against certificate holders. Additionally, the bill establishes procedures for filing charges against certificate holders, including requirements for written charges and the ability for the local school district or the department of elementary and secondary education to initiate such actions. It also details the process for hearings, appeals, and the rights of certificate holders, including the provision for delayed hearings if there are pending criminal charges. The bill emphasizes that a teaching certificate can only be issued to individuals with felony convictions or crimes involving moral turpitude upon a unanimous vote by the state board of education.

Statutes affected:
Introduced (5278H.02): 168.071