The bill appropriates funds for the Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development for the fiscal year 2026-2027, with a total allocation of approximately $1.38 billion. It specifies funding for various programs, including the Access Missouri Financial Assistance Fund, A+ Schools Program, and Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant Fund, while emphasizing that appropriations are to be used solely for their intended purposes. The bill also mandates that the General Assembly be notified of any new funds received and their intended use, and it prohibits the use of funds to support Common Core Standards. Additionally, it allows for flexibility in budget allocations between personal services and expenses, with a three percent adjustment permitted between specified sections. Significantly, the bill introduces new restrictions on funding at public institutions of higher education, stating that no funds shall be expended for students with unlawful immigration status at rates lower than those charged to international students, nor shall scholarship funds be allocated for such students. It also prohibits the use of state funding for contracts or programs focused solely on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, providing definitions and limitations on these efforts. The bill aims to enhance educational opportunities and workforce development in Missouri while ensuring effective and transparent management of funds.

Statutes affected:
3.150, 173.612, 3.015, 3.005, 53.15, 5.00, 3.020, 173.600