Senator Rogers Bill to Protect Teachers Signed into Law

ATLANTA (May 2, 2012) – Yesterday, Governor Nathan Deal signed SB 153 into law. The measure authored by Senate Majority Leader Chip Rogers, is designed to protect teachers who lose their job through no fault of their own.

SB 153 requires that employment records accurately note when a teacher is laid off because of issues not related to performance.  The result of this act is to ensure that Georgia teachers can be rehired more easily and not be punished for losing a job over financial issues with the district.

“We must continue to create policy that puts teachers first. During these tough economic times, it is important that our educators do not feel abandoned by our state; we must continue to support those who are on the front lines of our classrooms every day,” said Sen. Rogers.  “Teachers should never be punished for the financial decisions of the local district. I am thankful to Governor Deal for signing this important piece of legislation that will further benefit and protect Georgia’s educators.”

The bill also creates a new Code section relating to the timing of furlough days.  Under the new law, local school system furloughs days for teachers and school personnel that take place during the school year, must either be on a Monday, Friday, or in conjunction with a holiday.

RELEASE
For Immediate Release:
May 2, 2012

Contact:
Natalie Dale, Director
natalie.dale@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028