The proposed bill, titled the "Correctional and Probation Officer Fairness Act," aims to address compensation disparities between correctional officers, correctional probation officers, institutional security specialists, and sworn law enforcement officers in Florida. It mandates that starting July 1, 2030, the average salary for correctional officers and similar roles must be at least 97% of the average salary of sworn law enforcement officers. Additionally, the Department of Management Services is required to submit an annual compensation analysis report to key state leaders to monitor progress towards this goal. The bill also stipulates that these officers will receive an annual salary increase of at least 3% starting from the 2026-2027 fiscal year.
Furthermore, the bill allows the Governor to authorize correctional officers, correctional probation officers, and institutional security specialists to assist with law enforcement operations during declared state or federal emergencies. This provision includes specific eligibility criteria, such as active employment, certification by the Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission, and a minimum of five years of continuous service in a relevant capacity. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.