The bill amends Section 16-13-5 of the General Laws in Chapter 16-13, titled "Teachers' Tenure," to clarify the procedures and consequences surrounding the suspension of teachers. It establishes that a teacher can be suspended for good cause and mandates a pre-suspension hearing where the school committee must consider evidence and allow the teacher to respond. If a teacher is suspended before this hearing, they will continue to receive their regular salary during the suspension period, and insurance benefits will remain in full force and effect.

A significant addition to the bill is the requirement for teachers who are suspended pending a criminal investigation and subsequently convicted of a felony, as defined in 11-1-2, to repay the school district for any salary received during the suspension, less any amounts paid to satisfy taxes and employee benefits. This provision aims to hold teachers accountable for criminal conduct while ensuring that the rights of teachers are protected during the suspension process. The bill also includes a typographical correction regarding the term "pre-suspension." The act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
3137: 16-13-5