Bill > HB0676

This bill amends Tennessee law to ensure that teachers at state special schools receive benefits and compensation comparable to those at local education agencies (LEAs) and public charter schools. Specifically, the bill defines a "teacher" as a state board of education licensed employee at a state special school, excluding administrative officers and certain state employees. The legislation requires the Department of Education to provide teachers at state special schools with the same leave accumulation and usage rights as public school teachers, as well as eligibility for paid family leave. Additionally, the bill mandates that any salary schedule increases for teachers in the LEA where a state special school is located must be matched with equivalent increases for that state special school's teachers. Furthermore, when the state legislature appropriates funds for teacher salaries, raises, bonuses, or incentives for public school teachers, an equivalent amount must be allocated to teachers at state special schools. The bill aims to create parity in compensation and benefits for educators at state special schools, ensuring they are treated similarly to teachers in other public educational settings. These changes will take effect on July 1, 2025, and apply to the 2025-2026 school year and subsequent years.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB0676&ga=114