The Texas Senate unanimously passed Senate Bill 26 on Wednesday, seeking to provide substantial pay raises for teachers statewide.Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who presides over the Senate, emphasized his support for well-compensated teachers and reiterated that he views teaching as a profession.

The Texas Senate unanimously passed a bill Wednesday that would invest $4.3 billion over two years in teacher pay increases and secure state-funded salary boosts to educators when they reach early-career milestones.

Conroe, passed unanimously. The bill now goes to the House for further consideration. The House filed its own school funding bill last week, which lawmakers in that chamber will likely take up in the coming weeks.