Deal reached for Montana state worker raises

HELENA (AP) — Gov. Steve Bullock's administration and three public employee unions have agreed to give most state employees raises next year and the year after.

The increases of 50 cents an hour would take effect in October 2015 and October 2016.

The Missoulian reports (http://bit.ly/1pBkr6A ) the proposed agreement announced Friday must be ratified by union members to take effect. After that, the Legislature would need to approve the deal.

Bullock says Montana's strong fiscal position makes the raises possible. The increases will cost the state around $78 million over the next two years.

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