MS. Senate Sends Teacher Paycheck Bill to Governor

JACKSON, Miss. (AP) – The Mississippi Senate has given final passage to a bill meant to ensure teachers get a full August paycheck, though local school board representatives question its legality.

House Bill 71 was passed 48-0 Friday and now goes to Gov. Phil Bryant for his consideration.

The bill directs school districts to pay all employees in equal monthly installments. It’s meant to end problems created by an attorney general’s opinion saying it violates the state Constitution to pay employees for work not yet performed.

Teachers are typically paid 12 months a year though they work less.

Because of a law delaying school start dates, school leaders say employees won’t work enough to earn a full August paycheck.

The Mississippi School Boards Association says it believes the measure can’t overcome the constitutional prohibition.