SB 1202 Summary

• Modifies penalty structure for school districts and intermediate districts that employ uncertified or unqualified educators, changing from a flat 50% salary deduction to a tiered system: 50% deduction for violations occurring in the first 10 days after department notification, and 100% deduction for violations continuing after the 10-day period.

• Allows the superintendent of public instruction to reduce required deductions if a district faced unusual and extenuating circumstances beyond school authorities' control, such as natural disasters, employee death or serious illness, emergency closures, fraud, or emergency health conditions.

• Permits districts to apply credential deductions as credits against other payment adjustments under section 15 of the State School Aid Act, but credits cannot exceed the original deduction amount.

• Maintains existing requirement that districts must employ teachers, school counselors, and administrators who hold valid certificates, permits, or other appropriate credentials issued by the department.

• Preserves criminal penalty of up to $1,500 per violation for school officials who knowingly continue employing ineligible individuals after notification.