Bill would tighten what counts as graduate credit for teacher pay increases

A sponsor introduced House Bill 6080 to tighten eligibility for coursework that counts toward teacher lane advancement. The bill would require that graduate‑level coursework be degree‑eligible from an institutionally accredited college or university and that credits be awarded with a standard letter grade rather than pass/fail or completion‑only formats.

Mike Smith of the K12 Coalition described widespread concern about low‑rigor offerings — he cited examples in other states involving short, multiple‑choice, pass/fail modules marketed as graduate credits and said those courses had led to large, unforeseen salary and pension costs for districts. "When salary advancement can be earned through coursework that lacks rigor, districts spend scarce resources without receiving the instructional improvements those investments are intended to support," he said.

Committee members asked about retroactive remedies and whether course changes could interfere with certification rules or collective‑bargaining agreements. Witnesses and the bill sponsor said the intent is prospective: to ensure future coursework meets academic oversight, not to interfere with bargaining agreements or re‑certification processes. Supporters pointed to actions in other states that stopped accepting certain vendor credits and urged Michigan to act before the problem grows.

The committee also heard from university and preparation‑program representatives who urged careful implementation to avoid unintended consequences for candidate mobility and preparation programs. No final vote was taken during the session.