State Tax Deduction for Educators Takes Step Forward

The creation of a state tax deduction for educators who spend money out of their own pockets to purchase classroom supplies and materials is one step closer to becoming a reality.

Companion bills in the Senate and Assembly education committees Thursday (March 6, 2008) were passed unanimously. The educator tax deduction is part of WEAC’s 2007-08 Legislative Agenda.

The bills, SB-395 and AB-647, would allow educators to deduct up to $250 of non-reimbursed classroom expenses from their state income taxes. The deduction mirrors an existing federal income tax deduction available to educators.

“The educator tax deduction helps recognize the financial sacrifices made by teachers and education support professionals, who often reach into their own pockets to purchase classroom supplies such as books, pencils, paper and art supplies,” WEAC President Mary Bell in February. “Studies show that teachers are spending more out of their own funds each year to supply their classrooms with essential items.”

Educators from around the state took the time in February to testify in favor of the tax deduction at hearings held in the Capitol.

Related links:
Teacher testifies in favor of educator tax deduction [2/22/08]
Teachers voice support for educator tax deduction [2/13/08]

Legislative Update

The Senate Education Committee passed several other bills Thursday that WEAC supports. Among them were:

SB-251 (2007-08 WEAC Legislative Agenda Item)
Current law gives a teacher the authority to remove a pupil from the classroom if the pupil violates a locally developed code of conduct; is dangerous, unruly or disruptive; or exhibits behavior that interferes with the teacher's ability to teach effectively. Senate Bill 251 would extend the same authority to teacher aides in the school setting and at school-sponsored activities held on school grounds.

Related link:
ESP bill affords authority, respect [2/22/08]

SB-349
Requires certain records for pupils attending a private school participating in the Milwaukee Parental Choice Program.

SB-486
Details: Requires licensure of instructional staff participating in the Milwaukee Parental Choice Program.

SB-493
Provision of information about suicide prevention to public and private school professional staff.

SB-557
State special education aid for the salaries of certain pupil services personnel.

The Assembly Committee on Education also passed:

SB-42 (2007-08 WEAC Legislative Agenda Item)
Requires schools to have a policy on bullying.

Related link:
Assembly committee takes up anti-bullying legislation [2/13/08]

Posted March 7, 2008