Louisiana public school aid battle sparking new rift between Gov. John Bel Edwards, Senate vs. House

In a repeat of budget battles, Gov. John Bel Edwards and the state Senate are lining up against the Louisiana House on whether public schools will land their second funding increase in the past decade.

How the dispute plays out could also affect the popular proposed $1,000 pay raise for public school teachers, and raise the ire of already restive teacher unions amid nationwide walkouts over pay.

The Democratic governor, unlike GOP House leaders, says there is ample money in his $30 billion operating budget proposal to finance both a $39 million hike in state aid for public schools plus the teacher pay raises.

"The revenue is there," Edwards said. "It absolutely can be done and should be done."

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