PIERRE, S.D.(WNAX)- South Dakota state employees did pretty well in the budget passed by the legislature at the end of the session.

South Dakota State Employees Organization Executive Director Eric Olilla says they went into the session with realistic expectations.

Olilla says the increase approved by lawmakers is appropriate and appreciated.

Ollila says the state will also pick up most of the increased costs of health insurance.

Taking care of state workers was a priority of legislative leadership this year.