Open Enrollment Passes Missouri House

A bill allowing students to enroll in school districts outside their own was approved by the Missouri House last Wednesday.

The measure passed in an 88-69 vote, with 22 Republicans joining nearly all Democrats in opposition. It now moves to the Missouri Senate.

The bill, sponsored by Brad Pollitt (R-Sedalia), has narrowly cleared the House four times. However, it has never come up for a vote in the Senate.

John Hewkin (R-Cuba), who represents Crawford County in the 120th District, was one of the “yes” votes. 

Mike McGirl (R-Potosi) of the 118th District, Brad Banderman (R-St. Clair) of the 119th District and Tara Peters (R-Rolla) of the 122nd District were among the other local representatives to vote for the bill.

Pollitt’s bill creates a transfer process where districts can choose to participate and set limits on the number of transfers they will accept — up to 3 percent of the previous year’s enrollment. 

Parents can apply for transfers through an online state resource.

The legislation establishes a Parent Public School Choice Fund to help reimburse districts for expenses tied to transfers.

To ensure equitable access, the bill includes specific provisions for students with individualized education programs (IEPs), English language learners, and gifted students, guaranteeing they receive comparable services in their new schools. Recognizing potential transportation barriers, the measure provides reimbursement for low-income students and those with special needs who require assistance with transportation costs.

The bill also introduces safeguards against transfers motivated solely by athletic considerations and mandates that the state department of education collect data on the program’s impact. A particular focus will be placed on evaluating potential racial segregation effects.

Set for implementation on July 1, 2026, the program gives school districts time to adjust and establish new transfer procedures in preparation for the changes.