NASHVILLE – Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee proposed Monday night in his State of the State address what he’s calling the state’s “largest investment in K-12 teacher salaries in Tennessee history” with $117 million more for teacher pay.
The Republican’s plan amounts to a 4% increase in the state’s contribution to educators’ salaries.
Lee’s comments came as he unveiled his proposed annual state spending plan recommendations before the GOP-led General Assembly. It forecasts a record $40.82 billion budget.
The state is awash in surplus revenues with $1.2 billion in one-time money and $919 million in expected recurring tax collections amid what has been a burgeoning economy.
In addition to funding the state government’s share of increases to the state and locally funded Tennessee Basic Education Program funding formula for public schools by $65.9 million, Lee also announced his recommendation to create a special new K-12 “Mental Health Trust Fund” funded by $250 million in one-time money.