BEP Enhancement Act legislation passes legislature

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WDEF) – Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam announced overwhelming support for his Basic Education Program (BEP) Enhancement Act Monday.

The governor’s office said it strengthens the BEP funding formula for K-12 education in Tennessee.

Haslam’s office added the Fiscal Year 2016-2017 budget is the largest investment in K-12 education in Tennessee’s history without a tax increase.

The legislation, SB 2565/HB 2574, passed the Senate Monday (31-0) and the House unanimously April 11. It is now on its way to the governor’s desk.

The legislation:

• Significantly improves funding for teacher salaries;
• Provides for the 12th month of insurance for teachers;
• Doubles the state’s current investment in technology;
• Better serves high need student populations; and
• Addresses enrollment growth and inflationary costs.

If you’d like to learn more about the BEP, click here.