One significant impact of SB 406 is its requirement for police departments to increase officer salaries in tandem with the changes in their respective units' total levies in the years 2024 and 2025. This provision is expected to foster a more stable financial environment for law enforcement agencies, encouraging both recruitment and retention by making policing a more appealing career choice. Additionally, the bill proposes changing pension benefits for officers who retire after June 30, 2023, providing them with monthly benefits based on their highest average annual compensation.
Summary
Senate Bill 406, known as the Law Enforcement Recruitment and Retention Fund Act, aims to address the critical staffing shortages faced by law enforcement agencies at the county, city, and town levels. The bill establishes a dedicated fund designed to provide grants to these agencies, facilitating the recruitment of new law enforcement officers and enhancing retention efforts for current officers. It underscores the importance of effective public safety measures in response to the increasing demands on law enforcement personnel.
Contention
Notably, discussions surrounding this bill highlight concerns over funding and the implications for local governments. While the intention behind SB 406 is to alleviate the shortages in law enforcement personnel, critics argue regarding the sustainability of the fund and whether the appropriations are sufficient. Moreover, some stakeholders are cautious about the reliance on state-level programs for local law enforcement needs, fearing that it may take away from local control and decision-making capabilities.
Relating to accountability of institutions of higher education, including educator preparation programs, and online institution resumes for public institutions of higher education.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.