Marchman Bill to Address Teacher Shortage Passes Committee

SB26-126 seeks to address teacher shortage by easing licensure requirements for teachers from certain states

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senator Janice Marchman, D-Loveland, to ease requirements and expedite license applications for teachers from states participating in the Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact passed the Senate Education Committee today. 

“Talented educators shouldn’t face excessive barriers to entry when Colorado is already facing a teacher shortage,” Marchman said. “This legislation would streamline access to a teaching career in Colorado for educators who are already experienced in a trusted state.”

SB26-126, cosponsored by Senator Janice Rich, R-Grand Junction, would require the state to enter into reciprocal agreements for teacher licensure with states participating in the Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact, which currently includes 13 states other than Colorado, and to expedite licensure applications from teachers moving from those states. 

Under current law, teachers with at least three years of successful, evaluated teaching experience within the previous seven years are eligible for provisional licensure. This bill removes the requirement that the experience must be within the previous seven years.

SB26-126 now moves to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track its progress HERE.