Louisiana governor signs $30B budget, touts teacher raises

The budget starting July 1 contains increases for public schools, colleges, early learning programs, health services and public safety programs. The foster care program is expanding. TOPS will cover full college tuition for eligible students. Senior citizen centers are getting more money.

The Democratic governor, running for reelection, signed the measure Tuesday at a Baton Rouge public school where he promoted his successful push to increase K-12 spending.

In the upcoming budget, public school teachers are getting $1,000 salary hikes. Support workers are getting $500 raises. School districts are getting more discretionary money.

State spending from general tax collections is growing 1%.