Governor Perdue Signs Legislation Removing Barriers To The Classroom For Out-Of-State and Former Educators

Atlanta - Governor Sonny Perdue signed into law today legislation that provides Georgia's Professional Standards Commission with the flexibility to waive unnecessary hurdles for high quality teachers from other states to teach in Georgia. This bill also eliminates the unnecessary hurdles on quality Georgia teachers who take some time off from the labor force and decide to later return to Georgia's teaching force.

"Education is Georgia's future and our students deserve an opportunity to learn from the best and most committed teachers. House Bill 590 allows us to remove the unnecessary barriers that made it difficult for qualified education professionals from other states or former Georgia educators that have taken a few years off to return to Georgia's classrooms at a time when they are needed most," said Governor Perdue.

"I would like to thank Georgia's General Assembly for putting our children first and passing this important legislation. I would also like to acknowledge the efforts of Dr. F. D. Toth for his input regarding this important legislation and commend his continued strong leadership of Georgia's Professional Standards Commission," said Governor Perdue.

"Education will remain one of my top priorities. I look forward to offering legislation during the next session that continues the progress achieved so far. I remain proud of the work done by Superintendent Cox, State Board Chair Barrs, House Representatives Glenn Richardson, Brooks Coleman and State Senators Joey Brush and the many others who want Georgia's children to have a high quality educational experience," said Governor Perdue.