MO SB983

Establishes the "Missouri Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Initiative" within the Department of Higher Education to award matching funds to public institutions of higher education for STEM programs.

Creates a "Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Fund" managed by the state treasurer, consisting of appropriated funds and tax transfers, with money used solely for administering STEM support programs.

Authorizes the general assembly to appropriate funds for endowed teaching professor programs, STEM scholarships, experiential youth programs, and career enhancement programs for current elementary and secondary teachers.

Allows taxpayers who hire student interns majoring in STEM fields for at least 12 weeks (15 hours per week) to transfer up to $5,000 of their state tax liability from the general revenue fund to the STEM fund, capped at $50,000 annually from all participating taxpayers.

Requires internships to be located in Missouri and excludes third-party donations from counting toward the annual $50,000 tax transfer limit.