Rep. Tom Fabricio (R-Miami Lakes) has filed legislation in the House to require Florida public school teachers to pledge an oath to uphold the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution and laws of the State of Florida. The bill, entitled the Teacher's Oath Act, was filed by the representative this week.
Rep. Fabricio, who is an attorney, indicated in a press release that the bill was modeled after a similar oath taken by lawyers, doctors, and public officials before assuming their new positions.
He added that public educators should do the same, given their important responsibility in teaching Florida's children, noting they hold the "same level of accountability and civic duty" as any other profession.
"When I became a member of The Florida Bar, I swore an oath to uphold the Constitution, protect my clients, and act with integrity. That oath wasn't symbolic; it was a promise," Fabricio detailed in a statement. "Teachers hold something even more precious than money in trust; they are trusted with molding our children. Every day, they shape hearts and minds that will decide the future of this country. If lawyers, doctors, and elected officials must take an oath, then so should those who mold the next generation of Americans."
According to Fabricio, more than 30 states require such oaths of their public school educators, including California and New York.
"Our schools should be training young people to unapologetically love this country," Fabricio continued. "The Teacher's Oath Act is about restoring respect for the flag, the Constitution, and the timeless values that make America exceptional. Florida's teachers should lead by example, and that starts with a promise to defend the freedoms that make our nation great."
A Senate companion to the bill has yet to be filed. If passed, HB 147 would take effect on July 1, 2026.
The Florida legislative session begins on Jan. 13.
