On Tuesday, Gov. Andy Beshear signed legislation recently passed by the General Assembly that raises the salaries of Kentucky State Police Troopers, as the agency is in the midst of an “unprecedented shortage of troopers.”
In November of last year, Beshear announced his two-year budget proposal would provide millions of dollars to fund competitive salaries for troopers and officers, with an aim toward allowing the agency to recruit, train and retain a sustainable workforce
“My administration’s top priority is to protect our Kentucky families and communities, which is why we must boldly invest in our law enforcement,” Beshear said. “Thank you to every KSP trooper and officer who quickly responds to the emergencies and needs of the diverse communities that make up our commonwealth.”
House Bill 259 ensures that all troopers will receive a $15,000 raise. Additionally, KSP’s starting pay for sworn officers will increase from $40,000 to $55,000 annually.
The bill also includes a unique contribution enhancement for members of the State Police Retirement System Tier III plan, which will have an immediate impact on veteran troopers, the 71 recent graduates of the KSP Training Academy and new recruits who are preparing to report for training in June. Lastly, it establishes enhanced promotion pay for trooper and the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement supervisory ranks.
“KSP is experiencing an unprecedented shortage of troopers,” officials said, “with its lowest numbers in more than 30 years.”
The agency is staffed with 856 full-time sworn troopers and officers, 150 short of the agency’s strength in 2006.
Currently, KSP ranks 74th in the state among law enforcement agencies for starting pay, and compared with state police agencies in Kentucky’s seven neighboring states, KSP ranks last in pay overall.
“KSP is a fundamental component of our public safety infrastructure, serving every county in our commonwealth. Our troopers serve with bravery and distinction,” Justice and Public Safety Cabinet Secretary Kerry Harvey said. “We must maintain our ability to recruit and retain men and women who meet the high standards ingrained in this premier law enforcement agency. The actions embodied in the legislation signed today benefit all Kentuckians by providing the tools necessary to maintain a truly excellent law enforcement agency, which makes our communities safer.”
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
