Missouri House Bill HB2676

Missouri 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/10/22
• Refer: 5/13/22

Caption

Exempts the state highway patrol from the requirements of the state employee pay plan

Impact

This legislative change is expected to have significant implications for how compensation is determined for the State Highway Patrol. It allows for the formulation of a distinct pay plan that is potentially more sensitive to the operational demands and unique challenges faced by law enforcement personnel. This specificity in treatment acknowledges the different fiscal requirements for officers in terms of recruitment and retention, especially given the competitive environment for qualified law enforcement officers in Missouri.

Summary

House Bill 2676 aims to amend the state's employee pay plan by exempting the Missouri State Highway Patrol from its stipulated requirements. By repealing section 36.140 of the Missouri Revised Statutes and enacting a new section, the bill facilitates a restructuring of the pay plan that allows for more flexibility in the compensation of this specific group of state employees. The modifications seek to ensure that pay adjustments can be made without being bound by the standard policies applicable to other state employees.

Contention

The passage of this bill may spur debate regarding equity and fairness in state employment practices. By providing an exemption for the State Highway Patrol, concerns may arise that it contributes to a disparity among state employees in how salaries are structured and managed. Some may argue that all state employees should be subject to uniform pay standards to promote equality, while supporters of the bill might contend that specialized roles require tailored pay plans that reflect their specific responsibilities and market conditions.