Bill > S370

This bill aims to ensure that all public school educators in Massachusetts are paid a living wage by establishing minimum compensation levels and a mechanism for future adjustments. Specifically, the bill mandates that starting in the 2025-2026 school year, teachers will be paid at least $70,000 and education support professionals (which include roles like paraeducators, tutors, custodial workers, and transportation workers) will be paid at least $55,000. In a subsequent amendment, these minimum wages are increased to $80,000 for teachers and $65,000 for education support professionals, effective in the 2030-2031 school year. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology Living Wage Calculator will be used to define a living wage, and the state will fully reimburse school districts for the first year of increased compensation, with reimbursement percentages gradually decreasing over the next three years. Additionally, beginning in 2035, the minimum compensation rates will be automatically adjusted every five years based on inflation, as measured by the Consumer Price Index. The bill emphasizes that these minimum wages do not prevent school districts from offering higher compensation and must be implemented in accordance with existing collective bargaining agreements.

Education

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S370