The bill is an appropriation act that allocates approximately $8.43 billion for the expenses, grants, refunds, and distributions of the State Board of Education and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education for the fiscal year 2026-2027. It specifies that the funds are to be used solely for educational purposes as outlined in the act and in accordance with the Missouri Constitution. Key allocations include approximately $4.69 billion for the Foundation Formula Program Distribution, funding for safe schools programs, early childhood education initiatives, and various educational programs aimed at improving literacy, mental health services, and career readiness. The bill emphasizes flexibility in fund allocation and prohibits the use of funds for non-educational purposes, such as marketing or advertising of student data. New provisions in the bill allow the Office of Childhood to modify the reimbursement system for child care subsidies, permitting a specified number of absences per month for children enrolled in the program. Additionally, it mandates that all schools participate in monitoring for dangerous drugs, with the state covering the associated costs. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education is also required to provide regular financial reports and notifications regarding federal compliance and funding plans to legislative leaders. Overall, the bill aims to enhance educational resources and support for various student populations while ensuring accountability and transparency in funding and program implementation.

Statutes affected:
2.015, 2.455, 2.005, 2.010, 81.00