INDIANAPOLIS (AP) - Indiana lawmakers are nearing final decisions on how much more money will go toward school districts as teachers have been pushing for significant pay raises.
The Republican-dominated Legislature must agree on a new two-year state budget before ending this year's session, possibly as early as Wednesday.
Republican budget plans have proposed increases of about 2.5% in base funding for K-12 schools. Hundreds of teachers have attended rallies seeking greater funding increases, while Republican state schools Superintendent Jennifer McCormick said GOP Statehouse leaders gave a "false promise" on teacher raises.
Votes could come Tuesday on a proposal legalizing sports betting and allowing new casinos in Terre Haute and Gary. Legislators could also approve financing toward $295 million in public subsidies for renovation of the Indiana Pacers' arena in downtown Indianapolis.
