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HB 621

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2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Terry Cummings and 5 co-sponsors

HB 621 proposes differential pay for English Language Learner educators to improve recruitment and retention, enhancing education quality for ELL students.

House Second Readers
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Bill Summary · HB 621

Summary of Bill HB 621: Relating to Education

Bill Number: HB 621
Introduced: January 17, 2025
Status: Reported from EDN (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 339) as amended in HD 1, recommending passage on Second Reading and referral to FIN.
Classification: Bill
Subject: Appropriation ($), DOE, Differential Pay, Education, English Language Learner Educators

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HB 621 is to enhance educational support for English Language Learner (ELL) educators within the Department of Education (DOE). The bill aims to address the challenges faced by ELL educators by proposing a differential pay structure, thereby improving recruitment and retention of qualified professionals in this critical area of education.

Key Provisions

  • Differential Pay for ELL Educators: The bill proposes the establishment of a differential pay system specifically for educators who teach English Language Learners. This is intended to provide additional financial incentives to attract and retain skilled educators in this field.

  • Funding Appropriation: HB 621 includes provisions for the appropriation of funds necessary to implement the differential pay structure. The exact dollar amounts are not specified in the current summary but will be detailed in subsequent financial analyses.

  • Support for the DOE: The bill is designed to bolster the overall effectiveness of the DOE by ensuring that ELL educators are adequately compensated for their specialized skills and the additional challenges they face in the classroom.

Impact

  • Educators: The bill is expected to positively impact ELL educators by providing them with increased financial recognition for their work, which may lead to improved job satisfaction and retention rates.

  • Students: By enhancing the quality of education provided to English Language Learners through better-supported educators, the bill aims to improve educational outcomes for these students.

  • Department of Education: The DOE will be tasked with implementing the differential pay system, which may require adjustments in budget allocations and administrative processes.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 17, 2025: Bill introduced and passed First Reading.
  • January 21, 2025: Referred to the committees on EDN and FIN.
  • January 31, 2025: Scheduled for a hearing by the EDN committee.
  • February 4, 2025: EDN committee recommended the bill be passed with amendments; the vote was unanimous in favor.
  • February 11, 2025: Bill passed Second Reading as amended in HD 1 and referred to the FIN committee.

Related Bills

  • SB 973: This bill serves as a companion to HB 621, suggesting that similar provisions may be considered in the Senate.

This summary provides an overview of HB 621, outlining its intent, key provisions, and potential impacts on educators and students within the educational system. Further details regarding funding and specific implementation strategies will be clarified as the bill progresses through the legislative process.

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

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