MO HB1105

Amends Section 161.216, RSMo to allow public institutions, political subdivisions, and governmental entities receiving state funds to operate quality rating systems for early childhood education if they meet criteria established by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education through rulemaking

Removes the previous requirement that such systems could only be authorized through legislative enactment, initiative petition, or referendum

Eliminates the prior prohibition on governmental entities promulgating rules or establishing programs for early childhood quality rating systems without specific statutory authority

Removes the standing provision that allowed taxpayers or legislators to sue entities violating the section, and removes the exemption protecting higher education course content

Requires DESE to promulgate rules under Chapter 536, with a nonseverability clause voiding any rules adopted after August 28, 2015 if the General Assembly's review powers under Chapter 536 are held unconstitutional