Overview: HB 2926, Removing fees teachers have to pay in order to obtain any teaching license, certification, or additional continuing education credit hours (reporting fee) to the state Board of Education, is currently pending in the House Education committee.
Purpose and Intent: The bill aims to eliminate the fees that teachers in the state must pay to the Board of Education for obtaining or renewing teaching licenses, certifications, and continuing education credits. The goal is to reduce the financial burden on educators and make it more affordable for them to maintain their professional qualifications.
Key Provisions:
- Prohibits the state Board of Education from charging any fees for the issuance, renewal, or maintenance of teaching licenses, certifications, or continuing education credits
- Requires the Board to cover the administrative costs of these processes through alternative funding sources, rather than passing them on to teachers
Affected Parties and Impacts: The bill would directly benefit all teachers in the state by eliminating the out-of-pocket expenses they currently face for maintaining their professional credentials. This could help attract and retain qualified educators, particularly in underserved areas.
Procedural and Timeline Considerations: HB 2926 was introduced in February 2025 and is currently under consideration by the House Education committee. If passed, the bill would take effect at the start of the next academic year.