Salary Supplement for School Speech-language Pathologists and Audiologists
Impact
If enacted, HB 0103 will specifically impact existing provisions within Utah Code, particularly those outlined in Section 53F-2-504. It will broaden the scope of the Teacher Salary Supplement Program by incorporating educational professionals who provide essential services in public schools. The bill does not allocate additional funding; however, it ensures that the salary supplements for these newly eligible teachers are in line with appropriations for existing recipients, thereby potentially enhancing the workforce in educational settings.
Summary
House Bill 0103 is designed to amend the Teacher Salary Supplement Program to include certain speech-language pathologists and audiologists as eligible participants. The bill defines specific terms and eligibility criteria for these professionals, enabling them to receive salary supplements akin to those available for certified teachers. This legislative measure seeks to acknowledge the specialized skills and contributions of speech-language pathologists and audiologists in the educational landscape, recognizing their vital role in supporting students with communication disorders.
Contention
Notable points of discussion surrounding the bill may revolve around funding implications and the prioritization of budget resources. As it does not outline any new financial provisions, stakeholders may express concerns regarding the sustainability of the program and whether additional costs could arise from extending eligibility. Moreover, discussions may also touch on the adequacy of current appropriations to support all eligible teachers without diminishing support to existing participants in the salary supplement program.