Gov. Parson expected to sign state budget bill Friday

On Friday, Gov. Mike Parson is expected to sign the state’s nearly $29 billion budget.

The $28.3 billion budget plan includes a nearly $99 million funding increase to K-12 public schools. The plan would meet funding goals for elementary and secondary education as outlined in state law. It also would add another $10 million for school busing and $50 million more for early childhood education.

The full budget plan also includes a pay raise for state workers. Employees making less than $70,000 a year are set to get $700 raises, and those making more are budgeted for 1 percent raises.

The budget bill applies to state spending for the fiscal year beginning in July.