Teacher, Principal, and Leader Residency Access Act
Impact
The implementation of SB1468 is expected to positively influence state education policies by promoting a model that improves teacher preparation through comprehensive residency experiences. By ensuring that students participating in residency programs can receive financial support through work-study programs, the bill encourages more individuals to pursue teaching careers. This could alleviate the teacher shortage crisis faced by many states, particularly in critical subject areas such as mathematics and special education.
Summary
SB1468, titled the Teacher, Principal, and Leader Residency Access Act, aims to expand access to Federal work-study funding for students enrolled in residency programs for educators. It emphasizes the need for qualified teachers in classrooms, particularly in high-need areas, where a significant number of classrooms remain staffed by unqualified teachers. The bill recognizes that effective teaching residency programs can help recruit and retain teachers, especially in diverse and economically disadvantaged communities.
Contention
Notably, the bill addresses the issue of teacher turnover, which is a considerable concern for educational institutions. Research cited in the bill suggests that teachers who enter the profession through rigorous residency programs are significantly more likely to remain in their roles long-term, thereby benefiting both students and schools. However, discussions may arise regarding the adequacy of funding and support for these residency programs and whether they can be effectively implemented across various educational contexts nationwide.
Assault Weapons Ban of 2023 This bill makes it a crime to knowingly import, sell, manufacture, transfer, or possess a semiautomatic assault weapon (SAW) or large capacity ammunition feeding device (LCAFD). The prohibition does not apply to a firearm that is (1) manually operated by bolt, pump, lever, or slide action, except for certain shotguns; (2) permanently inoperable; (3) an antique; (4) only capable of firing rimfire ammunition; or (5) a rifle or shotgun specifically identified by make and model. The bill also exempts from the prohibition the following, with respect to a SAW or LCAFD: importation, sale, manufacture, transfer, or possession related to certain law enforcement efforts, or authorized tests or experiments; importation, sale, transfer, or possession related to securing nuclear materials; and possession by a retired law enforcement officer. The bill permits continued possession, sale, or transfer of a grandfathered SAW, which must be securely stored. A licensed gun dealer must conduct a background check prior to the sale or transfer of a grandfathered SAW between private parties. The bill permits continued possession of, but prohibits sale or transfer of, a grandfathered LCAFD. Newly manufactured LCAFDs must display serial number identification. Newly manufactured SAWs and LCAFDs must display the date of manufacture. The bill also allows a state or local government to use Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program funds to compensate individuals who surrender a SAW or LCAFD under a buy-back program.