MO SB795

Public institutions of higher education, political subdivisions, governmental entities, and quasi-governmental entities created by Missouri state statute cannot operate, establish, maintain, or mandate participation in quality rating systems for early childhood education unless authorized through legislation, initiative petition, or referendum.

Public entities are prohibited from promulgating rules, establishing programs, policies, or guidelines related to quality rating systems or training quality assurance systems for early childhood education without statutory authority consistent with the bill's requirements.

Private entities and nonprofit corporations organized under chapter 355 may operate, establish, and maintain quality rating systems for early childhood education without obtaining statutory authority, and public or private early childhood programs may voluntarily participate in privately-operated systems.

Public entities cannot mandate the use of quality rating systems, and private entities operating such systems cannot collaborate with public institutions, political subdivisions, governmental entities, or quasi-governmental entities on system operation, establishment, or maintenance.

Taxpayers and general assembly members have standing to bring lawsuits against public entities violating this section in any court with jurisdiction; courses on quality rating systems cannot be required for child care provider state certification or licensing.