DES MOINES, Iowa — The Iowa House came together on Wednesday to pass bipartisan legislation benefiting Iowa's education system.
Through HF 2630, Iowa teachers would make a minimum of $47,500 per year, increasing to $50,000 by July 1, 2026. The current minimum teacher salary in Iowa is $33,500.
"$47,500 minimum salary is an increase of 41.8% of the current law. It would put Iowa as 12th in the nation for teacher salary," said Rep. Bill Gustoff, R-Polk. "A $50,000 salary is an increase of 49.3%, it would put Iowa at fifth in the nation."
Increasing teacher pay was a priority for Gov. Reynolds going into this session, however it originally included her proposal in reforms to Area Education Agencies.
House Republicans separated the two when they tabled Reynolds' AEA legislation and introduced reforms of their own.
"The House of Representatives is united in support of paying our teachers, paying our educators, paying our paraprofessionals in a way that is not politicized, that is independent and that is good for Iowa kids," said Rep. Jennifer Konfrst, D-Polk.
In addition to the salary increase, non-salaried school employees, like para professionals or bus drivers, will have a minimum wage of $15 per hour.
"It provides recognition for educators and those who work in our educational settings, and it shows the value we have for them," said Rep. Sue Cahill, D-Marshall.
Overall, lawmakers saying this will help teacher retention in the state and improve Iowa's education system.
"Right now, here's an opportunity to show everyone else that the house has the right idea in mind," Konfrst said. "We're leading and this is important work."
The senate still has this proposal included in reforms to AEA's, and the two chambers will have to find an agreement for this to become law.
The bill passed out of the house with a vote of 92-1.