Bill > SB515

This bill, titled the "Quality Basic Education Act," revises the teacher recruitment and retention tax credit program in Georgia by streamlining its provisions and adjusting eligibility and benefits. Key changes include reducing the annual tax credit for most participating teachers from $3,000 to $2,500, though an exception preserves the $3,000 credit for those already eligible before July 1, 2026. The bill also modifies the criteria for qualifying public schools, shifting from a focus on rural locations or low performance to prioritizing schools designated as "turnaround eligible," those in the lowest 25 percent of performance, and "comprehensive support and improvement" (CSI) schools. New qualifications for participating teachers are introduced, requiring them to be recently hired and primarily teach in specific subjects like math, special education, career/technical education, or reading/English language arts, with specific endorsements needed for reading/English. The maximum number of participating teachers allowed annually is increased from 1,000 to 1,200, and the program application deadline is extended. The bill also introduces provisions for prioritized selection if applications exceed the new limit, with a focus on teachers in rural areas, and extends the program's application acceptance deadline to December 31, 2034.

Budget and Finance

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/73243