PIERRE, S.D.(WNAX)- The state budget passed by the South Dakota legislature and signed by Governor Kristi Noem includes a seven percent increase in state aid to education.

Associated School Boards Executive Director Wade Pogany says that was a welcome move.

Pogany says it helps schools catch up on their budgets.

Pogany says it may help districts find and hire the teachers they need.

The new budget year begins on July first.