From the BG Ad Group Studio this is your news minute on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast presented by Credit Union of Georgia. Today is Friday, March 29th, and I'm Keith Ippolito.

Lawmakers pass $36.1 billion state budget

In a major move, the Georgia General Assembly has passed a $36.1 billion budget for fiscal year 2025, showcasing a $3.7 billion increase over last year. This budget brings significant raises for state employees and public-school teachers, and boosts funding for the state's Pre-Kindergarten program.

State workers are poised to see $4,000 increases in their paychecks, with those in high-turnover sectors like law enforcement and welfare services receiving an extra $3,000. Teachers are looking at a $2,500 raise. Education is a big winner, with $243 million set aside for enrollment growth, $200 million for new school buses, and $108 million dedicated to ensuring each public school in Georgia receives a $45,000 school safety grant.

The pre-kindergarten program got a $48.4 million lift, thanks to strong lottery sales, signaling a focus on improving early education in terms of class size and teacher salaries. Moreover, the budget addresses tech upgrades in state prisons with $10.7 million and boosts healthcare provider reimbursement rates by $18.6 million. Additionally, $6.3 million will fund free meals for 64,000 low-income children.

Leveraging the state's $16 billion surplus, the legislature is allocating $1.2 billion in cash for infrastructure projects across schools and state agencies, moving away from traditional borrowing methods.

Awaiting Governor Kemp's signature, this budget underscores Georgia's dedication to enhancing the lives of its citizens and laying down a robust foundation for the state's future prosperity.

For more news about our community, visit mdjonline.com. For the Marrietta Daily Journal Podcast, I'm Keith Ippolito.

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