Bill > H733

This bill proposes significant changes to educator compensation in Massachusetts, establishing a minimum wage floor for teachers and education support professionals (ESPs) and creating a mechanism for ongoing compensation adjustments. Starting in the 2025-2026 school year, the bill mandates that teachers be paid at least $70,000 and ESPs be paid at least $55,000 annually, with these minimums increasing to $80,000 for teachers and $65,000 for ESPs by the 2030-2031 school year. The state will fully reimburse school districts and educational collaboratives for these increased compensation costs, with 100% reimbursement in the initial year, gradually decreasing to 20% by the third year. The bill defines ESPs broadly to include roles like paraeducators, tutors, interpreters, support staff, and service workers, excluding those requiring specific certifications. Beginning in 2035, the executive office of labor and workforce development will calculate periodic compensation rate adjustments based on inflation, using the consumer price index, with these adjusted rates taking effect every five years. The bill emphasizes that these minimum compensation levels do not prevent districts from offering higher wages and must be implemented consistent with existing collective bargaining agreements. The goal is to ensure that public school educators are paid a living wage as defined by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Living Wage Calculator.

Education

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H733