RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) — North Carolina lawmakers have released a long-delayed state budget proposal that includes higher pay for educators and state employees, along with new funding for community colleges.

The plan, still awaiting legislative approval, outlines several provisions that would directly affect Durham.

The proposal calls for an average 8% raise for teachers and a 3% raise for most state employees, plus one-time bonuses. It also fully funds “Propel NC,” a new community college funding model that rewards schools for training students in high-demand careers rather than focusing solely on enrollment.

Durham Technical Community College President JB Buxton said the model would strengthen programs tied to the region’s growing industries.

“It’s a very good budget for the community colleges,” Buxton said.

Full proposed budget

Durham Tech expects increased support for programs in life sciences, healthcare, and skilled trades — fields that continue to drive the Triangle’s economy. Buxton said those programs reflect the needs of employers across the region.

“If you think about things like electrical systems and technicians, in addition to HVAC, and plumbing and welding, if you think about biomedical engineering, those are areas that are in demand here,” he said.

Buxton said building a strong talent pipeline is essential as the region expands.

“We want to be the workforce development engine in this area, but we also want to be an economic development engine and kind of power our companies,” he said. “Not only bring people to opportunity, but give companies what they need to grow.”

The House and Senate are scheduled to vote on the budget on Wednesday and Thursday. If it passes both chambers, it will go to Gov. Josh Stein, who said he plans to review it closely before deciding whether to sign it.

“What we want is for the state to pass a budget that invests in our people,” Stein said, adding he wants to see more focus on education, public safety and mental health. “There are many things that the state needs to invest in, and we will be scrutinizing it, just as everyone else is, to see if it meets that test.”

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OKLAHOMA CITY (KSWO) — Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond has announced a settlement between his office and the Public Service Company of Oklahoma.

According to Drummond, the proposed residential rate increase will now drop from 15% to 1%. Instead of a $25 increase, the average PSO customer using 1,100 kilowatt-hours per month would only see a $2.45 increase per month.

The amount is also below the $11 interim increase set to go into effect Wednesday, July 1 for PSO customers.

“This is a major win for Oklahoma families, businesses and ratepayers,” Drummond said. “With inflation through the roof, consumers are already paying too much for goods and services. My office will continue fighting to ensure utility customers receive safe, reliable service at rates that are fair, just and reasonable.”

The latest proposal is also subject to review by the Oklahoma Corporation Commission.

There is no word on the settlement’s impact on Wednesday’s interim rate increase.

7News has reached out to PSO for comment and is awaiting a response.