FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Office of Governor Harvey Barker Salt Lake City, Utah Governor Barker Announces Bipartisan Debate on Educator Pay Proposal Governor Harvey Barker, serving as Majority Leader of the State Legislature, announced today that he will bring the Pay Increase for Educators Act of 2025 to the floor for full legislative debate, citing the importance of addressing educator compensation through a serious, bipartisan process. “Strong families and strong communities begin with strong schools,” Governor Barker said. “While this bill originates outside my own state, the issue it raises is universal. If we want to attract capable, dedicated teachers and keep them in the classroom, we must be willing to have an honest conversation about how we value their work.” The proposal would raise teacher salaries by $4,000, a measure supporters argue would help retain experienced educators and improve recruitment at a time of growing workforce pressure. Governor Barker emphasized that bringing the bill forward does not predetermine its outcome, but reflects his belief that responsible governance requires open debate rather than partisan dismissal. “As Majority Leader, my responsibility is not to shield ideas from scrutiny, but to ensure they receive it,” Barker continued. “This legislation deserves to be debated, amended if necessary, and judged on its merits—fiscally, educationally, and morally.” Known for his emphasis on community-based solutions and local accountability, Barker noted that any final action must balance respect for educators with long-term budget discipline and state flexibility. “I have always believed that education is a partnership between families, teachers, and communities,” he said. “That partnership works best when we approach policy with humility, facts, and good faith.” The bill will be scheduled for debate in the upcoming legislative docket, where members from both parties will have the opportunity to weigh in, propose amendments, and represent the views of their constituents. “Good ideas are not owned by one party,” Governor Barker concluded. “They are refined through debate—and that is exactly what we intend to do.” --