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Bill

H 5309

Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Shannon Erickson and 2 co-sponsors

South Carolina joins interstate compact allowing certified teachers from member states to teach without re-licensing, streamlining educator recruitment across state lines.

Recommitted to Committee on Education and Public Works
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Bill Summary · H 5309

Legislative bill overview

H 5309 establishes South Carolina's participation in the Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact, an agreement that streamlines teacher certification and licensure across participating states. The bill allows teachers certified in one compact member state to more easily teach in another without redundant certification requirements, reducing bureaucratic barriers to interstate employment.

Why is this important

Teacher shortages affect many states, and licensing reciprocity can help schools quickly fill vacancies with qualified educators from other states. This compact addresses workforce mobility challenges and may improve schools' ability to recruit experienced teachers, particularly in high-need subject areas and underserved regions. However, implementation depends on how states define "equivalent" credentials and whether reciprocity actually expands the teacher pool or simply redistributes existing teachers.

Potential points of contention

  • Quality control concerns: Critics worry that reciprocal agreements may allow teachers with lower state standards to teach in South Carolina if other member states have less rigorous certification requirements
  • Local autonomy questions: Schools and districts may resist reducing their role in vetting teacher qualifications, preferring individual background checks and assessments
  • Economic impact on teacher training: South Carolina's educator preparation programs might face pressure if teachers can more easily relocate, potentially reducing enrollment and institutional revenue

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

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