Legislature advances Sen. Pierce bill to increase the minimum teacher salary

On June 2, 2025, the Maine Senate gave unanimous, bipartisan approval to LD 34, “An Act to Increase the Minimum Salary for Teachers,” sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Teresa S. Pierce, D-Falmouth. On June 3, the House approved the bill 80-65, and it now awaits funding.

“As our teachers finish another great year of learning, many are retiring or finding a new profession altogether — and studies show they’re not being replaced at the same rate,” said Sen. Pierce. “LD 34 is Maine’s opportunity to retain and build a quality, classroom-ready workforce by investing in the success and well-being of future generations of students statewide. The support of my colleagues indicates this issue transcends party lines and I hope to send this bill to the Governor’s desk to become law.”

LD 34, as amended, would incrementally increase the minimum teacher salary to $50,000 beginning in the 2026-2027 school year.

According to a recent study from the Maine Education Policy Research Institution (MEPRI), the percentage of undergraduates pursuing education degrees for both male and female students nationally has also declined significantly, but even more so in Maine. Moreover, teacher pay was overwhelmingly chosen by 81% of respondents as a primary reason for not pursuing an education degree.

LD 34 was placed on the Appropriations and Financial Affairs table in the Senate, and will now be considered for funding.