MO HB1731

Creates the Veterans Commission Capital Improvement Trust Fund to be funded from gaming revenues and used for veterans' homes, cemeteries, memorials, and service officer programs, with up to $10 million allocated for World War I memorials.

Modifies the Early Childhood Development, Education and Care Fund to require at least $35 million annually from master settlement agreement funds (tobacco settlement) be deposited into the fund for early childhood programs serving children before kindergarten eligibility.

Establishes new Section 161.216 prohibiting public institutions, political subdivisions, and governmental entities from operating or mandating participation in quality rating systems for early childhood education unless authorized through legislation, initiative petition, or referendum.

Redistributes gaming commission fund net proceeds by increasing transfers to Access Missouri (from $4.5 million to $5 million), Missouri National Guard (from $3 million to $4 million), and directing remaining proceeds to the early childhood education fund and veterans' commission trust fund.

Declares an emergency clause for immediate implementation regarding veterans program funding and requires the joint committee on education to develop a comprehensive higher education funding formula by December 31, 2013.