Committee hears bill to remove blanket postgraduate‑degree requirement from civil‑service classifications

Staff told the committee that House Bill 2309 would prevent the state's classification plan from listing a postgraduate degree as the sole way to show qualifications for a role unless statute requires that degree. Danielle Creech, committee staff, said the bill aims to "remove barriers to state employment" while maintaining standards and competencies.

Representative Marie Levitt, the bill's prime sponsor, said the change recognizes alternative pathways into state jobs and urged the committee to advance the bill. "There is more than one way to develop skills," a supporting witness, Jamie Bird, said, describing being hired into a teaching role without an initial teaching degree during a shortage and later obtaining licensure. Sherry Sawyer of the Office of Financial Management testified in support, saying the bill would expand applicant pools while adhering to necessary competencies.

Supporters framed the bill as a workforce‑development measure to keep talent in public service; no committee action occurred at this meeting.