The Arizona Senate has passed a $10.4 billion state budget plan that provides more than $300 million in raises for many of the state's striking teachers after working all night.
On Wednesday night and Thursday morning, the Arizona Senate and House have begun debating a $10.4 billion state budget plan providing more than $300 million for raises for many of the state's striking teachers. Gov. Doug Ducey signed the bill Thursday morning.
The debate began after 8 p.m. Wednesday after a day of fits and starts as last-minute changes on the deal worked out between Republican legislative leaders and Gov. Doug Ducey. Minority Democrats weren't involved in the negotiations.
Debate lasted hours as the two chambers work their way through the 10 bills that make up the spending plan for the budget year that begins July 1.
Teachers who had hoped to go back to work Thursday essentially extended their strike by a day to ensure they could continue pressuring the Legislature. Many schools districts planning to re-open Thursday decided to remain closed.
