CHICAGO — On Wednesday Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker signed an approximately $40 billion state budget with more money for education and the state’s child welfare agency, along with a measure that could pave the way for a graduated income tax in Illinois.

The spending plan takes effect next month and has been called “balanced” by both Republicans and Democrats.

It fully funds Illinois’ $9 billion pension contribution and authorizes the borrowing of $1.2 billion to pay $6.7 billion in overdue bills.

The income tax measure adds a constitutional amendment question to November 2020 ballots asking voters whether they want to switch from a flat-rate income tax to one based on income.

The budget sets the minimum salary for a teacher in Illinois at $40,000.

It includes an additional five percent for funding for higher education, an additional six percent for community colleges, and $375 million more for K through 12.

There is also a $50 million increase for early childhood education funding.

There is also a $1,600 annual pay raise for lawmakers.