Governor Signs $40,000 Minimum Teacher Salary Legislation

In a few years, the state's teachers will be earning $40,000 a year when they begin their careers.

Governor J.B. Pritzker has signed into law a bill that sets a new minimum wage for teachers.

Democrat St. Rep. Katie Stuart says that a better starting wage will help alleviate a statewide teacher shortage by showing how the State values its teachers.

Starting next year, teachers will be paid at least $32,076 and by 2023, the figure will be $40,000. Currently, state law sets a minimum starting wage of $10,000.