Missouri House Bill HB2701

Missouri 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/14/24
• Refer: 3/11/24
• Report Pass: 4/24/24
• Refer: 4/25/24
• Report Pass: 4/29/24

Caption

Modifies provisions relating to Missouri state highway patrol salary increases

Impact

The implementation of HB 2701 is anticipated to enhance the salary structures within the Missouri State Highway Patrol, aligning them more closely with comparable law enforcement agencies in terms of pay and benefits. The annual comparative analysis required by the bill aims to ensure that the salaries of the highway patrol remain competitive, which could play a critical role in attracting and retaining qualified personnel within the state's law enforcement framework.

Summary

House Bill 2701 seeks to modify existing provisions related to the salary increases for members of the Missouri State Highway Patrol. Introduced by Representative Copeland, the bill allows the superintendent of the highway patrol to prescribe policies for salary increases and requires the superintendent to submit an annual salary schedule report. This report will include comparisons of salaries of highway patrol members with those of police officers from the three largest police departments in Missouri as well as with surrounding states' law enforcement agencies.

Contention

Although the bill seems straightforward, discussions may arise regarding budgetary implications and the prioritization of funding for law enforcement salary increases compared to other state needs. Stakeholders might express differing opinions on the adequacy of funding for this initiative and its potential impact on the state's overall fiscal health. Hence, while the bill aims to provide necessary support to law enforcement personnel, it also raises questions about where the state will allocate financial resources and how to balance such needs against other critical services.