A Cole County judge denied a request for a temporary restraining order that aimed to block House Bill 12 (HB 12), preserving $50 million in funding for the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Accounts (ESA) Program.
According to Attorney General Andrew Bailey’s office, the ruling allows the program, which provides scholarships to students across the state, to continue as the new school year begins. The Missouri National Education Association had sought to suspend the program through the lawsuit, but the court determined the case did not meet the standard for such relief.
Attorney General Bailey said the decision ensures scholarships remain available for students, including those with special needs and those in underperforming districts. State Treasurer Vivek Malek also expressed support for the continuation of the MOScholars program, emphasizing its role in expanding educational options.
Bailey noted that the program is intended to complement public education in Missouri, stating that funding for public schools remains at record levels. The ESA Program will remain in place while the broader legal challenge continues.
