Sen. Jay Wasson’s Legislative Column – March 30, 2018

March 30, 2018

General Assembly Approves Measure to Increase Access and Improve Efficiency in Higher Education.

I am happy to report that a bill I handled in the Missouri Senate was truly agreed and finally passed by the Missouri General Assembly this week. House Bill 1465 –which is similar to Senate Bill 807 that I filed at the beginning of the legislative session—increases the efficiency and accessibility of degree programs offered through the University of Missouri System. For example, under HB 1465, Missouri State University would be able to expand their course offerings for students who cannot move to Columbia but want to pursue degrees offered through Mizzou. These measures would allow working Missourians to pursue high level degrees without needing to relocate or quit their jobs. House Bill 1465 is a positive step toward spreading out the educational resources in Missouri and encouraging collaboration between state colleges and universities.

The business school at Missouri State University offers some of the best business programs in the Midwest, but is currently not allowed to offer doctoral degrees in business fields. At the same time, several colleges and universities are duplicating degree offerings which raises costs for students. House Bill 1465 also provides that community colleges may grant baccalaureate degrees if authorized by the Coordinating Board for Higher Education. This is great for students because they will have opportunities to choose from a wider selection of degrees without having a significant financial burden.

This legislation reduces the necessity of duplicate degree offerings while also aiming to make higher education more affordable. House Bill 1465 provides a method of reducing state spending on higher education while improving the student experience. This bill was created through hard work and cooperation between all of the higher education institutions throughout Missouri and I believe it is a very positive step in the right direction for resolving our budgetary challenges in the education sphere. House Bill 1465 now moves to the governor for his consideration.

If you have any questions or comments about this or any other matter regarding your state government, please feel free to contact me at (573) 751-1503; you are also welcome to e-mail me at jay.wasson@senate.mo.gov.