- Perfected -

SB 745 - This act makes several changes to higher education law.

A+ SCHOOLS - A+ Schools scholarships are extended to otherwise qualified students who attend four-year approved institutions of higher education in Missouri, with reimbursement capped at the cost of books plus the cost of tuition and fees at the Missouri public community college nearest to the college attended.

TEACHER EDUCATION PROGRAMS - The State Board of Education shall approve all teacher education programs of any approved institution of higher education.

REGULATION OF INDEPENDENT COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES - The Coordinating Board for Higher Education shall not penalize independent institutions for failure to comply with Board policies by withholding funds or withdrawing accreditation status. The Coordinating Board shall not prevent independent institutions from establishing new courses, programs or locations nor limit student financial assistance to the institution.

STUDENT FINANCIAL AID - A student's total financial aid, excluding loans and work study, shall not exceed the student's total school expenses. The Coordinating Board shall reduce a student's public financial assistance provided pursuant to Chapter 173, RSMo, as necessary to ensure compliance with this requirement.

RULEMAKING - Rules promulgated by the State Board of Education pursuant to Chapters 160 and 161, RSMo, and rules promulgated by the Coordinating Board for Higher Education pursuant to Chapter 173, RSMo, must comply with Chapter 536, RSMo. Rules currently in effect shall remain in effect, and any new rules are considered nonseverable from the authority of the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules to review agency rules.

OTTO FAJEN