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Bill

S 1874

An Act relative to out of state service for education professionals

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Dylan Fernandes and 1 co-sponsor

Bill permits Massachusetts educators to count out-of-state teaching service toward pension eligibility and salary schedules, improving recruitment but potentially increasing district pension costs.

Accompanied a study order, see S2786
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Bill Summary · S 1874

Legislative bill overview

S 1874 would allow education professionals in Massachusetts to count out-of-state teaching or educational service experience toward their state service requirements, pension eligibility, or salary schedules. The bill aims to remove barriers for educators who worked in other states before relocating to Massachusetts, recognizing their prior professional experience.

Why is this important

This affects teacher recruitment and retention by making Massachusetts positions more attractive to experienced educators from other states. It also impacts pension calculations and compensation structures, potentially increasing costs for school districts while improving competitiveness for out-of-state talent in the education labor market.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact: Counting out-of-state service may increase pension obligations and salary schedules, raising costs for municipalities and the state retirement system
  • Reciprocity concerns: Other states may not offer similar recognition to Massachusetts educators, creating unequal treatment
  • Verification challenges: Establishing consistent standards for validating and crediting varied out-of-state experience across different licensure systems and standards
  • Fairness to current educators: Existing Massachusetts teachers whose experience doesn't receive similar consideration may view this as inequitable

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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