Assembly passes ‘visiting educator’ bill

Legislation would stop rewarding private contractors

Spurred by the lobbying efforts of the Educational Consultants and Librarians of Unit 21, the Assembly voted this week to pass AB 755 with bipartisan support.

This legislation closes a loophole in current law, making visiting educators ineligible to use their temporary assignment experience to qualify for promotional or open examinations. The Department of Education has long brought in so-called “visiting educators” to do the work of Unit 21 members at significantly higher pay. These contractors are often given promotional opportunities.

"This is great news because AB 755 was one of our priorities identified during the bargaining process as a part of our multi-pronged approach to achieve parity and we worked hard to get it this far,” said Unit 21 chair Terry Lawhead. “But we’re not done.  Now our work begins on the Senate side.”

Unit 21 members formed a team to shepherd the bill through the legislative process.  The lobby team visited key lawmakers on different occasions, testified before the Assembly and helped educate decisions makers on the importance AB 755.

To join the campaign to pass AB 755, contact political organizer Michael Anadon at manadon@seiu1000.org or 916-554-1316.