Georgia senators advanced a bill that will allow retired teachers to return to the classroom without losing their pension. | CDC/Unsplash
Georgia senators advanced a bill that will allow retired teachers to return to the classroom without losing their pension. | CDC/Unsplash
Georgia senators overwhelmingly approved a bill that opens the door for retired teachers to return to the classroom while still collecting a state pension.
Under the new measure, teachers with 30 years of service would be able to return to the classroom after at least 12 months of retirement, earning both a full salary and their pension, FOX 5 reported.
"This bill benefits the retired teacher, our students, the retirement system, and rural Georgia," Sen. Russ Goodman (R-Thomas) told FOX 5. "This helps school systems fill vacant teaching positions in high-need areas with qualified and experienced teachers."
Senators voted 50-1 last month for House Bill 385 (HB 385), sending the measure to Gov. Brian Kemp (R-Ga.) to sign into law, FOX 5 reported. Kemp first proposed the measure last year as part of a plan to increase the number of teachers across the state.
Under HB 385, districts would be able to hire retired teachers in three top-need areas designated by the state Department of Education in regions across Georgia.
Goodman told FOX 5 there are currently 4,000 positions being filled statewide by teachers working outside their designated field, long-term substitutes, or someone finishing their degree. By bringing retired teachers back to the classroom, districts would pay the Teachers Retirement System the normal employer contribution of 19.98% of an employee's salary, as well as the 6% contribution that a teacher usually makes, FOX 5 reported.
If implemented, the bill would be in effect for four years beginning July 1, with a state auditor-issued report in 2025 outlining its effectiveness, according to FOX 5.
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