The Missouri House has passed a bill that could allow charter schools to expand to more districts.
With an 83-76 vote on Thursday, the House passed a proposal that would allow charters to operate in more heavily-populated districts such as Springfield and Columbia. It would also allow charters to move into districts with at least one low-performing school.
Opponents say the proposal takes money away from underfunded public schools and gives the money to privately-operated charters with less accountability.
House Speaker Todd Richardson said the proposal ensures accountability by allowing the state to revoke a charter's renewal application for low performance. He said it also allows more choice for kids zoned to low-performing schools.
The legislation now moves to the Senate.