Burke-Supported Measure Eliminating Substitute Teacher License Fee Now Law

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Kelly Burke, D-Evergreen Park, is working to address a shortage of qualified substitute teachers by enacting a new law which eliminates a burdensome licensing fee, which was pushing qualified subs out of the classroom.

“As a parent, I believe we have an obligation to ensure our children have access to a high-quality education,” Burke said. “Our children’s education should not stop when their teacher is sick or unable to be in the classroom, which is why we must reduce the burden for highly qualified individuals to become substitute teachers.”

Burke helped pass House Bill 3298, which waives the $50 renewal fee charged to teachers reapplying for a substitute teaching license if they have taught 10 full schools days throughout the previous year. The measure also allows new applicants for a substitute teaching license to receive a refund for the license fee if the applicant has taught at least 10 days within their first year of teaching.

“We should not be nickel and diming hardworking teachers who are trying to make a difference,” Burke said. “I am thrilled we are providing some relief to educators across our state and I will continue fighting for our teachers and students.”