Tighter proposed South Carolina budget would include raises for teachers and state workers

Columbia, SC – Teachers and state employees would get raises under a spending plan being debated by the South Carolina House this week. The proposed budget, amounting to $13.2 billion for the next fiscal year, is set to bring positive changes in the state’s workforce.

Overview of the Budget Plan

South Carolina House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Bruce Bannister highlighted the state’s economic stability, with revenues on the rise despite tax cuts. The $1.7 billion surplus available for spending has led to a promising outlook for state workers. However, with agencies requesting around $4.7 billion, it is projected to be a tight budget year.

Raise for Teachers

The proposed budget includes a significant allocation of $200 million towards raising teacher salaries. This would ensure that every teacher receives a raise, with the minimum salary for a starting teacher set to increase to $47,000 per year, marking a substantial 70% rise compared to a decade ago. Additionally, teachers would now be eligible for yearly raises for their first 28 years of service, expanding from the previous 23 years.

State Employee Raises

Alongside teachers, all state employees are also in line for raises. Those earning less than $66,666 would receive a flat $1,000 increase, while those making more would receive a 1.5% pay raise. The state intends to cover the rise in health insurance premiums for workers, a tradition maintained for over a decade.

Property Tax Relief and Infrastructure

As part of the budget plan, homeowners would benefit from $500 million in property tax relief, stemming from a surplus created by a sales tax increase in 2006. The average savings for homeowners are estimated to range from $277 to $472. The proposed budget also includes $200 million for bridge replacements, addressing the state’s aging infrastructure.

Other Highlights

In addition to the above, the budget plan covers various sectors, such as:

Higher Education

The budget proposes $61 million for state universities, aimed at freezing tuition increases. Technical colleges would receive $95 million to continue providing scholarships for students pursuing critical roles in sectors like health care, manufacturing, and education.

State Agencies and Infrastructure

The South Carolina Election Commission would receive $8 million to enforce the state’s new early voting law. A $5 million allocation is set for upgrading the Department of Motor Vehicles’ computer system. The budget also includes funds for law enforcement improvements and continued investments in economic growth, like expanding the state port in Charleston and enhancing major airports.

American Revolution Commemoration

$2 million has been earmarked in the budget to promote events commemorating the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. This includes a campaign highlighting South Carolina’s role in turning the tide of the war in favor of the United States.

Conclusion

The proposed South Carolina budget reflects a mix of strategic investments and raises aimed at benefitting teachers, state workers, and various sectors essential for economic growth. While the surplus presents opportunities for positive changes, the state remains cautious in allocating resources to ensure a balanced and efficient distribution of funds.