Bill Would Allow Missouri to Place Foster Kids in Unlicensed Christian Boarding Schools

Missouri lawmakers are considering a bill that could allow foster children to be placed in unlicensed Christian boarding schools, raising concerns among child advocates and some legislators. The legislation, HB 2241, has been stalled in the House Professional Registration and Licensing Committee for over a month and may still be brought up for a vote this session.

Opponents argue the measure could increase the risk of child sexual abuse by permitting unregulated facilities to care for minors. Emily van Schenkhof, executive director of the Children’s Trust Fund, warned that religious institutions have “grossly failed to protect children” in the past. She called the bill a potential threat to child safety.

The proposed law would allow organizations that object to state licensing to register with a “qualified association.” This association, which must have operated for at least 20 years, would oversee the facilities. Registered organizations could then apply to the Children’s Division to accept foster children. Under the bill, these unlicensed schools would not be directly accountable to the Department of Social Services but would instead be overseen by a “Child Protection Board” within DSS.

Critics point out that only one organization in Missouri meets the 20-year requirement for a qualified association—the Missouri Association of Christian Child Care Agencies. The three founders of this group ran two unlicensed boarding schools in the state that have since been closed due to abuse allegations. One of the founders, James Clemensen, operated Agape Boarding School in Missouri from 1996 until its closure.

Rep. Jo Doll, D-St. Louis, expressed concern during a February hearing, noting that abuse occurred at these schools for many years without oversight. “For no one in this governing organization to be aware of that is incredibly concerning,” she said.

Proponents of the bill claim it addresses a shortage of foster homes, suggesting that allowing unlicensed facilities to care for foster children could help meet the demand. However, opponents argue that the lack of state oversight poses significant risks to child safety. They emphasize the need for accountability and transparency in any system that involves minors.

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