In a recent meeting of the Assembly Committee on Ways and Means, Assemblywoman Erica Mosca presented Assembly Bill 472, aimed at providing protections for J-1 visa holder teachers in Nevada. This legislation is particularly significant as it addresses the ongoing challenges of filling teaching positions across the state, from Mineral County to Clark County.

Mosca, who made history as the first Filipina to serve in the Nevada state legislature, emphasized the importance of these teachers, many of whom come from the Philippines. She noted that the bill had undergone a thorough review process, transitioning from a study in the previous session to its current form. A key amendment was introduced to eliminate a fiscal note associated with the bill by removing a section related to a matching grant program through the Nevada Department of Education. This change was confirmed by Steve Cambero, the interim state superintendent of public instruction, who stated that the fiscal note had indeed been removed.

The committee heard strong support for the bill from various stakeholders, including representatives from the Clark County Education Association (CCEA) and the Clark County School District (CCSD). Daniel Stewart from CCEA highlighted the critical role that J-1 teachers play in the educational system, describing them as a backbone of the Clark County School District. He noted that the number of these teachers is now in the hundreds, underscoring their importance in delivering quality education to students.

Additional endorsements came from the Nevada Association of School Boards and the Nevada Association of School Superintendents, both of which expressed their support for the bill and its potential positive impact on the teaching workforce in Nevada.

The discussions during this meeting reflect a broader commitment to addressing teacher shortages and ensuring that educators from diverse backgrounds are supported in their roles. As the committee moves forward, the passage of Assembly Bill 472 could mark a significant step in enhancing the educational landscape in Nevada, particularly in areas facing staffing challenges. The next steps will involve further deliberations and potential voting on the bill, as stakeholders continue to advocate for the protection and support of J-1 visa teachers in the state.