With 'Omnibus' Bill Anticipated, Education Unions Outline Points of Support and Opposition

Unions representing public educators and school service personnel are trying to stave off a bill that hasn’t even been introduced yet. What some are calling an omnibus education bill would boost teacher salaries and benefits, but could also reform education in ways the unions oppose.

In a letter addressed to West Virginia lawmakers Monday, leaders of six unions representing public educators, principals and service personnel say they support a proposed 5 percent pay increase and a $150 million contribution to stabilize the Public Employees Insurance Agency.

The American Federation of Teachers-West Virginia, the West Virginia Education Association, the West Virginia Association of Elementary and Middle School Principals, the West Virginia School Service Personnel and the West Virginia Association of Secondary School Principals say they also support a proposal that would allow educators to bank sick days and use them for credit upon retirement.

However, the groups have raised concerns over other rumored provisions in what many are calling an omnibus bill.

Read more: http://www.wvpublic.org/post/omnibus-bill-anticipated-education-unions-outline-points-support-and-opposition#stream/0