Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H1465

Introduced

2/27/25

Refer

2/27/25

Caption

Relative to establishing a tuition free program for teachers and paraprofessionals

Impact

The implementation of H1465 is expected to positively influence the education sector in Massachusetts by incentivizing teachers and paraprofessionals to pursue advanced degrees or specialized training without the financial strain associated with tuition fees. This program could contribute to enhancing the overall quality of education by equipping educators with the necessary skills and knowledge. Additionally, as more teachers engage in continued education, the state may observe an increase in teacher retention, thereby addressing teacher shortages in certain areas.

Summary

House Bill H1465 proposes the establishment of a tuition-free program specifically for public school teachers and paraprofessionals working within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The bill aims to alleviate the financial burden on educators who wish to further their education and professional development at public institutions of higher education. By allowing these individuals to attend courses at no tuition cost, the bill seeks to improve educational standards and retention rates among teachers in the state.

Contention

While the potential benefits of the bill are significant, it may face contention related to budget constraints and the allocation of state funds toward higher education initiatives. Legislators may debate the feasibility of funding such a program and whether the investment will translate into tangible benefits for the state's educational system. There may also be discussions around prioritizing tuition-free options for other public service employees beyond educators, raising questions about equity and resource distribution among various sectors.

Companion Bills

MA H5179

Replaced by Study Order

Previously Filed As

MA H675

Establishing the school supplies for teachers program

MA S448

Establishing the school supplies for teachers program

MA HB2893

Education; paraprofessionals; teachers; exemption; effective date; emergency.

MA HB2893

Education; paraprofessionals; teachers; exemption; effective date; emergency.

MA HB2386

Relating to the licensing and regulation of certain legal paraprofessionals and establishing a legal paraprofessional licensing pilot program; requiring an occupational license; imposing fees.

MA H1463

Relative to a tuition and fee freeze at all public colleges and universities

MA S2045

Establishing a college tuition tax deduction

MA HB2072

Establishing the Tuition Waiver for Native American Students Program.

MA HB1799

In tuition account programs, further providing for declaration of policy, for definitions, for Tuition Account Programs Bureau, for powers of department, for Tuition Account Guaranteed Savings Program, for Tuition Account Investment Program, for general provisions governing both tuition account programs and for Federal taxation; establishing the Keystone Scholars Grant Program and the Keystone Scholars Grant Program Account; and making a repeal.

MA HB1403

In certification of teachers, further providing for program of continuing professional and paraprofessional education.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.