The House knows a good education is the key to future success, so we’ve been focused on passing an education plan that benefits every student, every parent, every teacher and every school district in the state.
Last week, Gov. Stitt announced his education plan. After carefully reviewing every facet of the Governor’s proposal, the House Republican Caucus overwhelmingly approved it this week and signed the bills out of conference.
Now, the plan heads to the Senate. We are encouraging the Senate to pass these bills out of conference quickly so each body can vote on them, and we can dedicate more attention to other policy topics important to Oklahomans, such as tax relief and economic development.
The Governor’s proposed plan combines elements from both chambers’ education plan. It funds public schools across the state, gives every teacher a pay raise and provides parents with a tax credit to send their children to the school of their choice.
House Bill 2775 and Senate Bill 561 both raise teacher pay. HB2775 appropriates $300 million to the funding formula to be used for teacher pay increases. SB561 gives classroom teachers a pay raise based on years of experience. It goes as the following: · 0-4years:$2,000 · 5-9 years: $3,000 · 10-14 years: $4,000 · 15-25 years: $5,000 Under the proposed plan, all teachers will receive their full salary increase regardless if their current pay is above the salary schedule. It’s time we deliver on raising teacher pay.
On another note, we finished hearing bills from the opposite chamber this week. I had two Senate bills pass the House floor, Senate Bill 939 and Senate Bill 193.
SB939 helps provide longevity, continuity and consistency to the spaceport in House District 55. I was proud to see this bill pass, as the spaceport is such an important part of our local community.
Next, SB193 provides six weeks of paid maternity leave for full-time state employees following the birth or adoption of a child. It would save the state of Oklahoma millions every year and help state agencies recruit and retain talented Oklahomans who provide services to our communities.
It is truly an honor and privilege to represent you at the State Capitol. As always, please do not __hesitate to reach out to me with any concerns at (405) 557-7312 or at [email protected].
Nick Archer, a Republican, serves House District 55 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, which covers Beckham, Blaine, Caddo, Canadian and Washita counties.
