Dyslexia reporting bill amended to include teacher mobility compact

A bill on final reading that would require school districts to collect data on students with dyslexia was amended to include a proposal intended to enhance teacher mobility after lawmakers voted to return it to select file May 24.

LB298, introduced by Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn, requires school districts to provide certain information on dyslexia to the state Department of Education. As amended, it also would require Nebraska school districts to adopt a written dress code and grooming policy that would be implemented at the start of the 2025-26 school year.

Senators voted to return the bill to select file to consider an amendment offered by Bellevue Sen. Carol Blood to add provisions of her LB413.

Under Blood’s proposal, Nebraska would adopt the Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact, which she said is intended to streamline the licensure process for teachers, particularly military spouses, when moving between member states.

The State Board of Education would create the rules for providing certification after 10 states agree to participate and the compact takes effect.

After adopting Blood’s amendment on a vote of 37-2, senators advanced LB298 to final reading by voice vote.