FROM INDIANA PUBLIC BROADCASTING

Indiana’s minimum teacher salary could increase to $45,000 a year under a proposal moving through the Statehouse. The bill, which gained support in the House, would raise the minimum salary by $5,000.

State education officials say most school districts would spend less than $500,000 to meet the new requirement, and some wouldn’t need extra funding at all. However, some lawmakers worry struggling districts may not be able to afford the increase. They’re also concerned about another provision that would require schools to offer paid parental leave, adding to the financial strain.

A committee vote on the bill is expected next week.