The annual state budget dance is heating up, with both the House and Senate releasing their budget proposals.

The House approved its plan on Thursday. It includes an additional 1% raise for a total of 4% for most state employees and a 2% one-time bonus for retirees. It also includes a raise of 8% for step-pay plan employees, including Correctional Officers, Probation/Parole Officers, and Juvenile Justice employees.

The Senate’s version is much smaller – just 46 pages – and deals mostly with school voucher expansion. It includes no additional money for state employees or retirees.

SEANC Government Relations Director Suzanne Beasley breaks down the process in this week’s podcast with Executive Director Ardis Watkins and Communications Director Jon Owens.