House budget-writers have recommended changes to the spending plan for North Carolina state government next year that ease school district funding reductions and give public employees and teachers a small bonus four years after their last pay increase.
The House Appropriations Committee recommended the $20.3 billion budget plan Tuesday after more than four hours of debate and votes on about 20 amendments. Debate on the House floor is expected Wednesday and Thursday.
The bill reduces by two-thirds the $500 million in state money that school districts would have been required to return next school year. There's a $250 bonus for state employees and teachers. The measure also sets aside $50 million to respond to conflicts with federal agencies involving adult care home residents and services they receive.
(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
