Senate Bill 49 Summary

• Establishes a minimum salary schedule for Oklahoma public school teachers effective for the 2015-2016 school year, with salaries based on years of experience and educational credentials (Bachelor's degree, Board Certification, Master's degree, or Doctor's degree).

• Defines "fringe benefits" as retirement benefits (excluding certain contributions and flexible benefit allowances) that count toward meeting the minimum salary requirements.

• Limits credit for military service and out-of-state teaching experience to a maximum of 5 years for state salary increments and retirement purposes, though school districts may grant additional credit on local salary schedules.

• Requires the State Board of Education to recognize teaching experience from accredited out-of-state school districts and to grant full experience credit for certain certified teachers employed by state agencies (Department of Corrections, Department of Human Services, and University Hospital).

• Exempts retired teachers who return to postretirement employment from the minimum salary schedule requirements and declares an emergency effective date of July 1, 2015.