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Panel hears proposal to raise Fast Track grant income limits to keep pace with inflation

House Committee on Economic Development · February 17, 2026

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Summary

Rep. Travis Wilson told the committee HB 2151 would raise Fast Track grant eligibility for single filers to $50,000 and joint filers to $100,000; community colleges, chambers and employers expressed support while members asked about budget and outcomes.

Rep. Travis Wilson introduced House Bill 21 51 to the House Economic Development Committee, proposing to raise income eligibility thresholds for the Fast Track workforce incentive grant to reflect inflation.

Wilson told the committee the change raises single‑filer maximum gross income from $40,000 to $50,000 and joint filers from $80,000 to $100,000. He emphasized the program is a grant (not a tax credit) and is budgeted; the fiscal ask in testimony was presented as approximately $6.7 million.

Supporters from community colleges and business groups spoke in favor. John Barje of the Missouri Community College Association said Fast Track is separate from the A+ scholarship and is aimed at adults (25 and older) returning to training. Alex Eaton of Ozark Technical Community College said the program has higher completion and retention rates for participants and cited health‑care and IT programs among top uses. Chance Hepla of the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Nancy Giddens of the Greater Kansas City Chamber also voiced support, saying the program helps produce a trained workforce for employer needs.

Committee members asked about whether expanding eligibility would increase program cost or create waiting lists; Wilson said the program is currently budgeted and that average award levels are around $4,250 per recipient per school year. Members asked the Department of Higher Education for post‑program outcome data; witnesses said they would provide follow‑up information if available.

No vote was taken on HB 21 51 at the hearing. Committee members expressed general support for workforce development goals while seeking additional budget and outcome data before moving forward.

What happens next: The sponsor said he would work with members on technical questions about budgeting and follow‑up workforce outcomes; the committee adjourned after hearing further agenda items.