By Marshall Griffin, KWMU
St. Louis, MO – A bill that would set up scholarships for Missouri kids in failing school districts is still alive, despite failing to win House approval.
The Senate version of the bill that would create the Betty Thompson Scholarship Fund is awaiting floor action. It's sponsored by Republican Luann Ridgeway of Clay County.
Despite recent failure of the House version, Ridgeway says she believes her bill stands a better chance.
"Given the vote in the committee, I think, uh, maybe things are looking pretty good for the bill, it came out of the Senate committee on a 5-2 margin, and that's pretty solid," said Ridgeway.
The bill would enable students in failing school districts to attend better performing public schools or private schools. The scholarships would be funded by private donors who would receive tax credits. Critics say that would cut into state revenues and would use tax dollars because of the use of tax credits.