The Latest: Mississippi gov touts teacher pay raise plan

JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — The Latest on Mississippi Gov. Phil Bryant's 2018 State of the State speech (all times local):5:22 p.m.

Mississippi Gov. Phil Bryant is using his eighth and final State of the State speech to push for a teacher pay raise.

The Republican is asking lawmakers to pass a school safety act, although he is not offering details of the plan. He says he wants a "safe and protected environment" in schools.

He says Mississippi's economy is faring well, with low unemployment and an increase in exporting goods. He says a "Complete to Compete" program is helping adults return to college to finish earning their degrees.

Bryant says workforce development is the "highest priority" in Mississippi.