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MO Sup. Ct. Opts Out of UM Tuition Case

By AP/KWMU

Jefferson City, MO – The Missouri Supreme Court Tuesday dismissed an appeal from the University of Missouri over a lawsuit dealing with tuition.

That means the St. Louis County judge who ruled the university illegally charged tuition to some 200-thousand students is free to settle the matter. He could order refunds, which could cost as much as $400 million.

A law written in 1872 requires free education for all Missouri natives.

In December, a St. Louis County judge ruled against the university system. He has yet to decide on the possible remedies. Questions include how far back the university's refunds, if any, should go. Such refunds to at least 150,000 students - past and present - could cost as much as $400 million dollars.

However, the attorney behind the lawsuit, Bob Herman, says he isn't looking for such a costly order. He says remedies could include vouchers students could use for tuition or donate to MU for a tax credit.

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