Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

Wisconsin Senate Bill SB1085

Introduced
3/4/26  
Refer
3/4/26  

Caption

An Act to amend 119.04 (1); to create 20.255 (3) (bt), 40.02 (22) (b) 15. and 115.418 of the statutes; Relating to: longevity bonuses for teachers in school districts. (FE)

Impact

If enacted, SB1085 would modify existing state laws surrounding teacher compensation and school funding by introducing a structured framework for longevity bonuses. This change could enhance recruitment and retention efforts across various school districts, particularly those struggling with staffing issues. The proposed framework may require districts to allocate specific funds or adjust their budgets to accommodate these bonuses, which could necessitate adjustments in their funding strategies or support from state-level financial resources.

Summary

SB1085 is a legislative proposal aimed at establishing longevity bonuses for teachers within school districts. The primary intent of the bill is to provide financial incentives for teachers who remain in their positions over extended periods, thereby enhancing teacher retention rates in the state's educational system. This initiative responds to the ongoing challenges that school districts face with teacher shortages and high turnover rates, particularly in underserved areas. By offering such incentives, the bill seeks to stabilize the workforce and improve the overall quality of education for students.

Contention

Debate surrounding SB1085 centers on the feasibility and funding of the proposed bonuses. Supporters of the bill argue that providing longevity bonuses is essential for fostering a more stable and experienced teaching workforce, ultimately benefiting students’ educational outcomes. Conversely, critics raise concerns regarding the fiscal implications for school districts, particularly smaller or less financially stable ones, questioning whether they can sustain such bonuses without jeopardizing other areas of educational funding. Additionally, there may be disagreements over the criteria used to determine eligibility for these bonuses, which could lead to disparities across districts.

Companion Bills

WI AB1102

Crossfiled An Act to amend 119.04 (1); to create 20.255 (3) (bt), 40.02 (22) (b) 15. and 115.418 of the statutes; Relating to: longevity bonuses for teachers in school districts. (FE)

Previously Filed As

WI AB1102

Longevity bonuses for teachers in school districts. (FE)

WI A10392

Provides for longevity bonuses relating to first grade firefighters and promotions from the firefighter rank.

WI S09202

Provides for longevity bonuses relating to first grade firefighters and promotions from the firefighter rank.

WI HB239

FY27 2% Teacher Pay Raise and Retiree Longevity Bonus

WI SB380

Teachers' Retirement System, longevity bonus for certain retirees and beneficiaries

WI H482

Reauthorize & Revise Teacher Bonuses/Military

WI HB1498

The powers and duties of center boards and the authority of a school board to pay a first-year signing bonus for teachers; and to declare an emergency.

WI HB1498

AN ACT to amend and reenact sections 15-20.2-07 and 15.1-09-33.1 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to the powers and duties of center boards and the authority of a school board to pay a first-year signing bonus for teachers; and to declare an emergency.

WI SB1109

Grants to school districts to pay student teachers an hourly wage, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI AB1148

Grants to school districts to pay student teachers an hourly wage, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.