House Speaker Destin Hall and Senate Leader Phil Berger just announced that the House and Senate have agreed on the following details of the state budget. They stopped short of announcing a full budget, saying they have more work ahead.

It’s important to note that this is just one step, albeit an important one, in the budget process. The House and Senate will have to pass a full budget, and it will be sent to Gov. Josh Stein for signature or Veto. If he vetoes it, it will return to the NCGA for an override vote.

State Employees

• 3% raise for most, with larger increases for certain areas (LE, corrections — see below)
• Bonus: $1,750 for employees making under $65K, $1,000 for those making over $65K

Retirees

• 2.5% bonus (one-time, not a COLA)

Teachers and Law Enforcement

• 8% average raise for teachers. Raises across the entire salary schedule, including veteran teachers
• Bonus: $1,000 for teachers with 16+ years, $500 for those under 16 years

Law Enforcement & Corrections

• SBI and ALE officers: 20.3% average raise (including steps); civilians get substantial raise too
• State Highway Patrol: 17.7% average raise with steps; SHP civilians up to 11.5%
• Correctional officers: 15.4% average raise with steps
• Probation/parole officers: 10.1% average raise, including steps
• Other LEOs (including State Capitol Police): 13%
• $40.1 million for one-time $1,750 bonuses for local LE officers statewide

The work is not done. Tell your legislators what you think of this proposal by giving them a call.