Bill to restore teacher pay advances

BOISE (AP) — Legislation to reverse scheduled cuts to Idaho teacher salaries is being accelerated in the House as lawmakers work to wrap up the 2012 session.

The House Education Committee approved the bill Wednesday, hoping to end a session-long debate over restoring $35 million in reductions to teacher pay planned under last year's "Students Come First" education reforms.

Rep. Bob Nonini's bill is similar to a measure approved by the Senate. But the House plan prioritizes the reforms including merit pay and laptops for any new funding. It also increases first-year teacher salaries at twice the rate of general teacher salary increases.

Sen. Dean Cameron has said he believes his chamber will back Nonini's plan, which also has support from the state Department of Education.

Lawmakers are expected to adjourn Friday.