The bill passed by the House Education committee would eliminate the minimum salary requirement and salary schedule for teachers, and instead requires local school districts to come up with their own systems.
Republican Rep. Gerald Stebelton of Lancaster is the chair.
“We need to face the reality that there are teachers that are less qualified than other teachers," Stebelton said. "They’re not as well-trained—they’re not as good in teaching—and having the same salary schedule for a second grade teacher who is not a good teacher and the one who is an excellent teacher is not fair to the one who is an excellent teacher."
Opponents say the current system is effective and ensures equality. The Ohio Education Association adds that merit-based pay creates a competitive environment among teachers who should be working together.
The bill is expected to go before the entire House for a floor vote this week.
Andy Chow at the Ohio Public Radio Statehouse News Bureau.