COLUMBIA, S.C. — South Carolina House lawmakers officially passed the state budget on Wednesday.It now heads to the state Senate for review.
If approved, the $13.2 billion proposal would devote $500 million to property tax relief, $200 million to bridges, and $100 million to continue long-term income tax cuts.
However, an increase in teacher salaries has advocates calling the spending plan historic and potentially game-changing for the state.
“Education, I think, won out in this year's budget, which makes my heart happy," Rep. Neal Collins, a Republican representing Pickens County, said "Hopefully, it pays dividends to recruiting and retaining teachers which I think is one of the biggest issues in South Carolina.”
The state faces what analysts say is the largest shortage of teachers ever recorded with the Center of Educator Recruitment, Retention, and Advancement reporting more than 1,600 vacancies at the start of the fall semester.
Among the areas getting creative to fill slots are districts in Lancaster, York, and Chester Counties.
"They would find a sub that's able to teach that course or that course is just not offered," Chris Christoff, a spokesman for Chester County School District said in the fall.
If the budget passes, teaching advocates say the new salary will make the state more attractive with bigger stipends for classroom materials, more money for long-term employees, and money for upgrades that help keep students safe.
"Salary is a necessary component of enhancing teacher recruitment and retention in South Carolina," Patrick Kelly with the Palmetto State Teachers Association said. "We have to provide teachers with living wages and this makes a difference.”
Contact Kayland Hagwood at khagwood@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.