West Virginia 2023 Regular Session

West Virginia Senate Bill SB425

Introduced
1/23/23  

Caption

Granting cost-of-living stipend to correctional officers employed by Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation

Impact

The passage of SB425 has significant implications for state laws governing corrections personnel. It allows for flexibility in the budgetary allocations of correctional facilities and directly impacts the compensation structure for correctional staff. By empowering the Commissioner to grant stipends, the bill aims to improve staff retention amid rising living costs, which has been a concern in the public safety sector. This addition could potentially enhance the recruitment of qualified personnel into roles that are often seen as challenging and underappreciated.

Summary

Senate Bill 425 is proposed legislation aimed at providing a cost of living stipend to correctional officers employed by the West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation. This stipend can be granted up to an annual amount of $10,000, depending on the discretion of the Commissioner of Corrections and Rehabilitation. The bill acknowledges the increasing cost of living and seeks to address financial concerns for correctional officers, which are crucial for public safety services. It mandates that any stipend provided shall not affect the officers' retirement or other employment benefits, ensuring that these financial aids maintain clear boundaries concerning legislative compensation packages.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding SB425 is largely supportive among those familiar with the challenges faced by correctional officers. Proponents argue that the stipend reflects a necessary acknowledgment of the difficulties inherent in correctional work and aims to enhance the morale and quality of life for these public servants. However, some may express concerns about the appropriateness of discretionary fund allocation, questioning how such stipends might be managed and whether they could lead to disparities among officers based on facility conditions or geographical differences.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB425 may arise concerning how the stipends will be funded and whether there are clear guidelines for their issuance. Critics may worry that without strict oversight, the discretion given to the Commissioner could result in unequal treatment among correctional officers in different facilities. The requirement for reports to the Governor and Legislature introduces a layer of accountability, yet it leaves room for debate over the effectiveness of oversight in ensuring fair distribution of the stipends.

Companion Bills

WV HB2895

Similar To Granting a cost of living stipend to correctional officers employed by the Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation

Previously Filed As

WV HB2895

Granting a cost of living stipend to correctional officers employed by the Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation

WV HB2362

Relating to recognizing the law-enforcement powers of correctional officers employed by the Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation.

WV HB5359

Relating to recognizing the law-enforcement powers of correctional officers employed by the Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation.

WV SB680

Adding Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation employees to Survivor Benefits Act

WV HB3112

Requiring Trauma-informed Employee training for employees of Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation

WV SB880

Relating to powers and duties of Commissioner of Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation regarding Stevens Correctional Center

WV SB472

Relating to access to juvenile records by certain employees of Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation

WV HB2364

Creating an ombudsman program within the Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation to review complaints against a state agency or correctional facility.

WV HB5358

Creating an ombudsman program within the Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation to review complaints against a state agency or correctional facility.

WV HB3456

Relating to the powers and duties of the Commissioner of the Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation regarding Stevens Correctional Center

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