FY15 Budget Clears House With Emphasis On Education
The Georgia House Monday approved a budget for fiscal year 2015 that significantly boosts funding for K-12 education and college students.
During a presentation of the $20.8 billion budget plan, appropriations chair Terry England told House members the priority for next year is clear.
“Education funding is truly and certainly the hallmark of the bill before you today,” said England.
The budget plan projects modest economic growth and includes $916 million in new spending, more than 70 percent of which is set aside in one way or another for education.
More than $300 million of the new funds would go directly to local school systems to increase instructional days, reduce or eliminate teacher furlough days, and boost teacher salaries. School systems ultimately would decide how exactly the money is spent.
The budget plan also includes $12 million to restore full tuition coverage for technical college students who qualify for the Hope Grant.
The House voted in favor of the plan 169-4, with three Republicans opposing – Reps. Gregory, Moore, and Tarvin - and one Democrat – Rep. Holcomb.
The budget plan must still be approved by the Senate and then signed by the governor.
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