Bill to give school support staff pre‑suspension hearing advances after debate over safety
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Summary
HB 116 would require an opportunity to be heard before unpaid suspensions for covered school employees; supporters said it protects low‑paid staff, while opponents warned about applying pre‑suspension rules in child‑abuse reports. The measure was reported 10‑0.
Delegate Ward introduced House Bill 116 to ensure school employees beyond teachers — including teacher assistants and custodial and support staff — are given an opportunity to be heard before being suspended without pay. The sponsor framed the bill as a fairness and due‑process measure, saying, “No school employee loses pay without an opportunity to address certain allegations.”
Supporters, including Lawrence Drombetta of the Virginia Education Association, said the measure simply extends to support staff the process already in place for teachers. Opponents and online commenters raised concerns about applicability in cases involving allegations of child abuse. Anne Tatus of the Virginia Childhood Innocence Project warned that pre‑suspension procedures should not require returning employees reported for abuse to school settings and cited existing reporting pathways (OASIS) and legal safeguards.
In committee, Delegate Cherry asked whether the bill permits immediate termination or removal when necessary to protect students; the sponsor said immediate protective action remains available while also providing an opportunity for employees to be heard. The subcommittee reported HB 116 out of committee, 10‑0.