The Senate passed the annual state budget bill on April 4, with bipartisan support.

The $23 billion “long bill” had previously passed the House.

The Senate’s work included the passage of an amendment that sets aside $21 million for the creation of a state aerial firefighting fleet.

The 2014-2015 fiscal year budget features a $200 million increase in K-12 education funding and $100 million that would backfill education budget cuts that the Legislature enacted during recession years.

The bill also includes $100 million in additional higher education funding and provides relief for homeowners who were impacted by last year’s floods and wildfires.

The long bill now heads back to the House for the consideration of Senate amendments.